Read = Learn = Lead 

Mission: How to teach your child to love reading.

Introduction: Does your child complain about reading time? Do you wish they would just pick up a book with a smile on their face? Or maybe you’re worried that your little one won’t like to read at all when he or she starts? That was my mom’s fear. She prayed that I would learn to love to read. My mom read to me as a baby for countless hours. She read and prayed and read and prayed. 

Substance: Now, at age 22, I can’t put down a book and constantly have one or two books on the go. I also started an Instagram where I talk about my love of reading and post book reviews. I even have a few videos for younger readers. How did my mom achieve this feat? Well, she achieved it through determination and helpful resources. 

Even as I reached the age where I could read on my own, my mom still read aloud to me for many years to come. We used the Sonlight Curriculum, which is a Christian literature-based program that uses living history books to inspire a love of reading. Thus, we read countless historical fiction books that enthralled my mind with adventurous tales that taught me about real-life events. 

Implementation: First of all, if your child doesn’t like reading at all, start with books that they would like to watch on TV. Let me explain. If your child likes to watch the Avengers, find books about the Avengers.  (They exist…I know 😉). Also, maybe your child struggles to read or enjoys pictures rather than words. I’d suggest the Geronimo Stilton books for a good time. If they need less complex books, I’d suggest the Arthur series or picture books, even if they’re above that age level. It’s nothing to be ashamed of if they have to read below their age level. I still read picture books as an adult to relax my mind and take in beautiful pictures. 

I would recommend trying to get them to read by encouraging them to read “fun,” non-school-related books. School books can certainly be fun, but now is the time to work on your child’s mindset. Show them that reading CAN be fun and then introduce them to the school books later. 

Also, I firmly believe that a child can learn things from non-curriculum books. They can learn from a book like Endlewood by Alissa J. Zavalianos, where characters strive forward with heart and courage. Many books can teach children good, moral traits. Don’t worry if your child doesn’t want to read non-curriculum books just yet. They can still learn from other books. 

Please note: I am extremely passionate about developing young readers. However, you must be aware of today’s literature standards. Many books for young readers include inappropriate content, such as sexual terms or scenes, LGBTQ references/characters, and strong language. Please do your research before you hand new books to your children. Have open conversations about age-appropriate literature and the values of your family. You must guard your children’s minds and protect them.

Now, get ready! Use a good curriculum like Sonlight to get your reader reading. Sonlight showed me the beauty of reading, and I wouldn’t be a reader today without it. You can use our Curriculum Database or our Book List curated by me to help you along this journey. Read with your child and have them read alone as well. Perhaps they would enjoy reading outside in a beautiful place or having a cup of hot chocolate to make the experience even more fun. 

Conclusion/Motivation: All in all, show your child that reading can be fun. Remember, the point is to have fun reading…the learning from school books can come later. They can make an enjoyable activity out of it, and it will serve them well in life if they are well-read. After all, Readers are Leaders!!!!!!