READING & ITS IMPORTANCE

You all are well aware that READING is the ability of identifying and recognizing printed or written symbols, which help to relate familiar concepts. Being a good reader is always said to be the most important achievement in any one’s life. From the time a child is born parents should start reading in front of them regularly. It develops a book habit in children. The best habit that can be developed in a child is the habit of reading. Reading though seems simple but actually lays the foundation for educational success.

Reading aloud is said to be “The Most Valuable Gift” that can be given to a child in the early childhood days.
Reading aloud helps to develop listening skills, vocabulary, grammar and above all it creates a bonding experience between parent and child. Efforts need to be planned to cultivate an effective and fruitful reading habit in children.

1.Enlarges children’s vocabulary and exposes them to the world of correct grammar.
2.Understanding communication.
3.Stimulates imagination, creativity and curiosity.
4.Develops intellect & memory.
5.Promotes values and thought process.
6.Reading provides a solid cultural back ground.
7.Reading uplifts ambition in children.
8.They can relate printed words with sound and speech.

Enhances the level of concentration and helps them develop critical thinking skills & communication skills.
Reading aloud helps to make a child confident and develop his / her self-esteem.

HOW TO DEVELOP GOOD READING HABIT

1.Visit the library regularly with your child.
2.Try and find out good children’s magazines at the library.
3.Read aloud at home, this will help to develop their phonetics and also increase their vocabulary.
4.Let your children see you read.
5.When your child starts reading let him/ her read to you.
6.Give books to your child which are related to his/ her interest.
7.Make reading fun. Your child must enjoy the reading activity.
8.Interact with your child while reading. Ask questions on each and every topic covered.
9.If your child is a reluctant reader buy her books with a high interest level and low vocabulary.
10.Ensure the child understands what he reads.
11.Play game with your child with words, which can help in developing reading habits.
12.Provide a comfortable reading area with good lighting.
13.Always encourage your child to read instead of nagging him / her. Application of force might destroy his interest level.
14.Engage your child in conversation, as it is a prerequisite to understand written words.
15.Reward your child for good reading. The reward can be a book, based on his / her favourite topic.
16.Make reading a priority.
17.Develop a regular reading schedule without interruption.
18.Surround your child with reading materials as per his standard. These materials can be kept in his bedroom, bathroom, family rooms, playroom, cars and beside T.V.
19.A wide variety of reading activities should be encouraged like reading road signs, game directions, name plates, sign boards, grocery lists, etc.
20.Never neglect reading problems. Consult your child’s teacher, tutor or a good counselor.

To conclude its never too late, reading habit can be developed at any age, but always the result is better if it is inculcated early.

Bindu Sharma
PRINCIPAL
RAYAT INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL