Getting your kids to read

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Teachers constantly stress the importance of encouraging your children to read at home and many say it's the most important thing you can do to help with their education.

That's all well and good, but what if you've got a child who simply has no interest in books?

Firstly don't give up. It's all too easy to think there's nothing you can do to get them interested in reading and leave it at that. We've got tips to help them along the way and books that might interest different age groups.

Tips to encourage your kids to read

Make reading fun! Even if you're not a big reader, or just don't ever find the time, try not to make your lack of interest obvious - they have to think you enjoy it as well!

Never make your child read. If they feel like they're being forced to do it, they'll be more likely to see it as a punishment than a fun pastime.

If at first they don't take to reading, don't give up. How many times have you read a book or watched a film that you haven't enjoyed? It'll take time to find stories they really love.

Make outings to the library a regular event. Librarians are usually really keen to help children find books they like so introduce them to the staff there and talk together about what sort of things they are interested in.

Give them a proper space for books in their room so they can feel pleased with their growing collection and make getting a new book a real treat.

Remember that reading magazines still counts and it will all help to improve their literacy skills. So if they're not so keen on books, maybe a magazine subscription is an idea.

By Charlotte Gunn