The healthy habit of reading

Building a lasting habit requires commitment. As your son settles into the school year, this is a great opportunity to encourage and support him in making reading for pleasure a regular part of his daily routine.  In addition, holidays can provide extra time for boys to find books they love and further explore the world of reading.

Reading is central to academic success, but it is also linked to positive wellbeing, improved empathy, increased understanding of self and a better understanding of one’s place in the world.

As parents, we are our children’s first literacy teachers and the ways we engage with reading will fundamentally shape our children’s attitudes.

How can you create a supportive reading environment?

• Use the start of a new year to establish a reading routine. Many families have bedtime reading routines when their children are young, but these tend to drop off when children begin to be able to read independently. Having a routine where everyone (even you!) reads before bed is both conducive to good sleep, as well as habit forming.
• Make reading a pleasure. The research is clear; when we enjoy reading, we read more. Create positive associations around reading by reading to or with your children.
• Show you value reading. The visible presence of adult books in the home is a key measure of academic achievement for children. If your son is in years 3-6, read their set texts so you can engage in book discussions.

Brought to you by Brighton Grammar School