This Father’s Day Help Your Sons Read
Posted by Marsha on June 15, 2010
Most teachers and parents alike would agree that boys don’t like to read as much as girls. Research proves a literacy gender gap exists, and although there are always exceptions, a literacy study done in 2002 by Michael W. Smith and Jeffrey D. Wilhelm called “Reading Don’t Fix No Chevys,” found that boys generally take longer to learn to read, read less as they enter middle and high school, are less enthusiastic about reading, and have more trouble understanding narrative texts than informational texts.
So, since Father’s Day is this weekend, I thought it would be a good time to suggest tips for dads who want to get their boys (or girls) reading.
MODEL READING Do as I say, not as I do does not fly with kids. The saying should be changed to Do as I say AND as I do. Let your kids see you reading, talking about books, and share what you have learned. Live a readerly life!
MAKE IT FATHER AND SON TIME We make time for things that are important to us. Make reading a priority by establishing a daily family read time. Set the rules (no electronic devices allowed, no answering the phone, no getting up to get something to drink) and make it a father and son thing. Pick a time when the father and son (or the entire family) is together, and start with 15 minutes a day. Of course, if the girls want to join in…
HELP BOYS IN THE SELECTION PROCESS Boys don’t always know what they like to read. Know boys tend to like interesting facts, high adventure, and practical information, however, be careful not to stereotype. Help them select books that appeal to their interests.
LISTEN TO BOOKS Listening to audio books is a great way to get kids into reading. It is a great way to suggest a new author, expose them to a genre they might not seem to be interested in, and a great way to turn travel time into literary family time!
Chances are, one day your sons will be fathers themselves, celebrating Father’s Day with their own family. Start a new tradition this Father’s Day. If you are not a reader, become one with your son. If you are, share the experience with your children. Not only will you be giving a gift that will help them academically, you will be giving them a gift that may turn into a tradition.
Resources for books for boys:
Books For Boys Who Don’t Love to Read
Barb said,
Great ideas for encouraging boys to read. It also allows fathers and sons to spend more time together throughout the year.
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