Discover the joy of reading with Book Clubs and Book Fairs
Discover the joy of reading with Book Clubs and Book Fairs
It might be surprising to learn your child has trouble finding books they enjoy. More surprising: Research shows parents consistently underestimate this challenge.
According to the Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report, 47% of readers ages 6 to 17 say they have difficulty finding books they like. Infrequent readers say it more, 69% having difficulty finding the right books for them. But only 36% of parents recognize their children face this challenge — illustrating a real disconnect between how parents think the reading is going and what kids are actually experiencing.
Here are tips for finding that just-right book for your young reader.
Let kids follow their interests.
We know it’s essential for parents to model strong reading behaviors when raising a reader. But it’s also important that kids be allowed to navigate the wide world of books on their own. Kids enjoy the books they choose most. So, while you’re committed to guiding their reading habits, it’s best to let them pick their reads.
Letting kids choose their own books is a must for testing out what sticks and what doesn’t as reader tastes develop. If your child chooses a book you feel is above or below their reading level, that’s okay! You can offer to read it with them.
Above all, you want to make sure you are providing steady access to books, as children will work out quickly what doesn’t appeal to them.
Encourage a variety of genres and formats.
Novels are the standard many parents have in mind when they think of reading progress. If novels aren’t working for your child, don’t push it. There’s a whole universe of reading out there to explore before they find the book that’s just right for them — and finding a place to start can be intimidating.
It’s important to remind your child that there are a variety of book genres and formats which might appeal to them.
Perhaps your striving reader will enjoy non-fiction or graphic novels. Or if your child is big into gaming, there are tie-in books about gaming that bring those visual adventures to the page.
Series are another way to initiate and maintain reader interest. Children who find characters they like in the first volume are likely to stay on and see how these characters’ challenges unfold.
What you want your child to experience with books is success — which could be often qualified as finishing a book. Once your child experiences success with a book, they’ll want to read more. That’s where series can be a powerful tool for propelling reading.
Check in with teachers to gauge current interests.
Teachers stress that communication with parents is key to tracking children’s developing interests. Checking in with your child’s teachers can help steer you toward books your child may enjoy — and prompt richer conversations about books at home.
By honoring your interests and your child’s — and by grabbing a few extra titles for every one your child chooses when you’re picking out books — your child will reap the rewards of reading widely and frequently. They’ll also be sure to find something just right for them among the stacks.
Shop best-sellers across genres below to find that just-right book for your child. You can find more books and activities at Scholastic Book Clubs.
Originally published by Scholastic Parents on August 12, 2022. Versioned for Scholastic Canada.
Book Clubs
Scholastic Book Clubs helps kids discover the joy of reading. Together, we put can’t-miss books into kids’ hands—at can’t-miss prices, while also giving back to a teacher's classroom!
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Book Fairs
Bookjoy or bust! Millions of children have discovered books—and a lifelong love of reading—at a Scholastic Book Fair.
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