How do I raise a bookworm?

The earlier you begin to encourage a love of reading in your child, the better. A child who grows up surrounded by books in a home that values the importance of reading stands a much higher chance of becoming an avid reader. So, what exactly can parents do to raise a book-worm?

Read to your child: This should be a regular routine in your home. Make time for an hour of reading each night, before bed is a good time as kids are winding down.Have a book shelf dedicated to books in your child’s room. For birthdays and Christmas, give your child books or as they get older, book vouchers so they can choose their own books. A shelf of books in their room will help develop their interest in reading.

Be a good role model. It’s hard to encourage a love of reading if your child doesn’t have a good role model. Set aside time to read each evening and turn off the TV for an hour.

Find subjects that interest your child. Maybe your child likes sports or dinosaurs or maybe he likes fairytales or magic? Finding books that you think will interest your child will mean he is more likely to enjoy the experience.

Visit bookshops and the library together. Taking your child routinely to a library or to a bookshop will expose him to the joy of reading. Many bookshops and libraries have story time hour which your child will also be sure to love.

More questions

How do I raise a bookworm?

The earlier you begin to encourage a love of reading in your child, the better.

My toddler is drooling and having trouble eating. Should I worry?

Drooling and difficulty eating can be associated with normal toddler behaviour, illness or sensory processes.

When does separation and independence occur in a child?

Up to the age of three, your toddler will be over separation anxiety. However, as there are so many separations in the years of growing up – pre-school, a few days away at camp, and even your child’s first year at college, bouts of separation anxiety could very well occur from time to time all through your child’s life.

How can I ensure that my toddler's motor development is on track?

As long as your toddler has plenty of space and time to play, and practice all their new physical skills, they’re probably doing just fine with her development!

How can I make sure that my child stays curious and interested in the world around him?

Toddlers are naturally curious about everything. Instead of stifling that curiosity, you should be making every effort to promote it!

Encouraging imagination and creativity: how do I do it?

Your child’s imagination is not only a source of fun – it’s one of his or her most important early learning tools.

I want my child to be in touch with her emotions. How can I ensure that she grows up that way?

Young children are emotional beings. The worst thing you can do is make them stifle those emotions. Teach them how to cope with them instead, and you’ll raise a well-adjusted child.

Encouraging spirituality: how can I make sure that my child grows up with a spiritual foundation?

If you want your child to grow up with a strong spiritual foundation, it’s never too young to start teaching, but remember to teach by example.