Tips for Encouraging Your Child to Read for Information

What is “reading for information”? Essentially, this type of reading is distinct from reading for pleasure or fun (not that it can’t be enjoyable) because its primary purpose is to obtain information. Children may view this kind of reading as boring or uninteresting, but learning about a subject can be a very exciting thing to do. Besides, it’s an important life skill.

So how can you encourage your child (or student) to read for information? Here are some tips.

1. Trust Kids’ Natural Curiosity

Sometimes, adults neglect the natural curiosity in children and fail to foster it. One of the ways to encourage that curiosity is through reading for information. You just need to tie it in to that innate interest children have in the world around them.

2. Answer Questions

Children are full of questions (see #1 above!). Rather than saying “I don’t know” or not paying much attention, take that question and read informational literature (non-fiction books) to answer it. This not only helps get kids interested in reading for information, but it also shows them the process.

3. Connect the Reading to an Event

Go on a “field trip” or outing and read up on it beforehand. For example, plan a trip to a zoo and read books about zoos and the various animals that are there. Spend extra time reading about the animals your child is most curious about, and make sure you see that exhibit. You could do the same sort of thing with a local historical re-enactment, craft fair, or museum. This helps the informational reading come alive.

4. Read to Your Kids

Non-fiction books can be just as fun to read aloud and read together as fiction stories. Your local library probably has hundreds of non-fiction books for kids, with beautiful illustrations and photographs. Reading such books with your child may help pique his or her interest.

5. Connect the Reading to an Activity

In addition to events, you can connect reading for information to a variety of activities. “How to” books are great for this, as are books showing kids how to do science experiments. Books about how to make something – such as a clothespin doll or balsa wood airplane – are also good introductions to reading for information. Your participation is helpful!