In my opinion, being able to read proficiently is the key to a successful academic life. Think of the subjects studied in school. Now imagine not being able to read well, or worse yet, not being able to read at all. It adds up to an academic life of struggling.

So how do we as parents create proficient readers? It doesn’t happen by forcing your child to read. Children don’t like to be forced to read. Being forced to read can eventually backfire, with a child that ends up disliking reading and carrying that into adulthood.

The very first thing that a parent can do to foster reading is to read to your child. Start when he or she is very young and create a reading routine. Finding time to create that reading routine is not always easy for today’s busy parents. One sure way to get in that reading time is by reading to your child before he or she goes to sleep. Whatever you read doesn’t have to be long. It can be a quick read and still be beneficial. A short story or an article from a magazine can work! If you create this reading routine with your child, I believe you will see the benefits. Your child will be exposed to language. Your child will be exposed to your intonations as you read. Your child will have a sense of bonding with you. You child might come to view reading as fun!

It’s not difficult or too time consuming. And since school is starting, it’s the opportune time to start a new and beneficial habit. So go ahead! Read to your child!