Page 30 - Intra Muros Issue 2 February 2025

TODAY’S CHILD

RAISING READERS IN A DIGITAL WORLD

creens are everywhere these children learn that reading is enjoyable – a READ ALOUD, TOGETHER
days, competing for our children’s way to relax and discover. Reading aloud isn’t just for toddlers –
Sattention. Yet, books offer something primary school children often love being
unique – they spark curiosity, bring CREATE A COMFY READING SPOT read to, even up to grade 6 or 7. It’s about
comfort, and unlock worlds of imagination A cosy corner with a basket of books can picking a book that’s engaging and age-
and insight. Encouraging children to reach work wonders. It might be a quiet spot by appropriate. Sharing a story as a family can
for a book might take some extra effort the window or a beanbag in their bedroom turn reading into a relaxing and memorable
in a digital world, but it’s a journey worth – somewhere they can grab a book and bonding activity. Gathering together to
taking. Whether they’re toddlers clutching settle in. When books are easy to reach, enjoy a chapter each night or discussing the
their first picture book or primary school reading feels like a natural choice, just part plot builds a sense of connection, making
children diving into adventure stories, of what they do at home. reading feel like quality time.
here’s how to make reading a treasured
part of family life. SET THE EXAMPLE LET KIDS PICK THEIR BOOKS
Children are quick to copy what they see. If Letting children choose their own books is
START EARLY WITH PRINT BOOKS they watch you reading a book or flipping key to keeping them interested. Take them
Print books can make reading feel special through a magazine, they’ll see reading to the library or a bookshop and encourage
from the very start. There’s something as something worth doing. Whether it’s a them to browse and pick what catches their
calming about holding a book, turning novel, recipe book, or newspaper, showing eye – comics, animal books, mysteries,
the pages, and exploring illustrations. them that reading is part of your day lets anything that excites them. The choice is
By starting with simple printed stories, them know it’s something to enjoy, too. theirs, and that makes all the difference.

28 | INTRAMUROS FEBRUARY 2025