Reading for Success

Children and teenagers prefer to participate in sports or find entertainment in the world of technology rather than sit down to read. While many will argue that a measure of reading is done while they chat online or play various games, it doesn't help them to improve their reading skills.

Why is reading important? Reading

- helps the mind to develop.

- stimulates the muscles of the eyes.

- improves vocabulary and word power;

- sparks the imagination.

- broadens horizons and increases the IQ.

- stimulates emotional development.

- cultivates sensitivity and empathy.

- improves conversation.

- builds confidence.

- teaches moral values.

- entertains and relaxes.

Reading is fundamental. Parents need to realize how important their role is in motivating a love for reading. The custom of reading and the love of books must be established in childhood. If parents want their children to succeed at school and in life, they should read to them aloud daily for at least 20 minutes. This can be done at bedtime. A child is never too young to listen. Even babies respond to the way the voice is used during reading. Parents who read to their children will soon discover that the time spent together creates a special bond.

It is never too late to start reading. Children and teenagers can start by reading magazine or newspaper articles of interest. Parents should motivate them to read the articles aloud. If at first they are hesitant, the parents should read the articles to them. Convincing them to read books may be more difficult.

For some children and teenagers, reading is work because it is done mostly for school. Another reason why they may hate the idea is that they are struggling with reading. They become defensive and think the activity is stupid.

Patience and a lot of encouragement are the keys to a parent's success, but if all else fails, encourage them to work towards a prize. Very little motivates and inspires the youth more than money and gifts.

In the end, "The highest reward for a man's toil is not what he gets for it, but what he becomes by it." - John Ruskin.