a Tips To Help Children Conquer Reading (NAPSA)—Oh, the places students can go when they open up a good book! Students who enjoy reading do well in school; they boast higher test scores, develop comprehension proficiency and improve analytical skills faster and better than their peers whoreadlessfrequently. But how do parents get their children to turn the pages when reading is sometimes seen as a chore rather than a reward? “No matter what the subject, good reading skills will pave the path to academic success,” says Dennis Van Roekel, president of the National Education Association (NEA), which represents 3.2 million educators. “Parents can encourage their children to enjoy reading by making it a family affair.” To help children develop a love of reading during their early years, NEA launched Read Across America, an award-winningliteracy program that culminates every year on Dr. Seuss’s birthday. Originally created as a one-day event to celebrate the joy of reading, the program has grown into the nation’s largest reading celebration with more than 45 million readers participating annually. Now in its 12th year, NEA’s Read Across America encourages students to be in the companyof a good book and offers these tips to parents: *Don’t wait to set a good reading example. It’s never too early to start good reading habits. Begin sharing books with children during infancy, even as young as 6 weeksold. *Have materials on hand at home. In addition to books, stock up the house with newspapers, a a rm— 7 = 2. 2008 Photo by Jeff Topping/NEA. Courtesy of the National Education Association. All Rights Reserved. An annual reading program can be a terrific way for parents to foster a love of booksin their children. magazines and otherperiodicals to persuade children to read instead of turning on the television or playing a video game. *Build skills and comprehension by starting a discussion. When you read aloud, stop to discuss unfamiliar words and pause to ask questionsto help your child predict what is coming next. Ask children about characters in stories and why characters might act the waythey do. *Make readinga daily routine. Children are more comfortable when they know what to expect each day. *Set and reward readinggoals. Build enthusiasm by providing a special treat when a reading target is reached. Positive reinforcement can help boost motivation. “Parents play the title role in their children’s education,” adds Van Roekel. “If everyone in the family is on the same page, then magic happens.” For more information andtips, visit www.nea.org/readacross.
