In their desire to provide high-quality literature for their kids, sometimes parents overlook the books their boys might actually want to read. Don’t pass over graphic novels, joke books and nonfiction.
In their desire to provide high-quality literature for their kids, sometimes parents overlook the books their boys might actually want to read. Don’t pass over graphic novels, joke books and nonfiction.
Draw on research done by educators, librarians and publishers and look for reading materials with one or more of the following qualities:
Studies show that when children are excited about a topic, they will keep reading. Even the most active boy can get lost in a book—or a website or an adventure-packed comic book—that matches his passions and preferences. Children’s librarians and bookstore owners are precious allies, but there are online resources as well:
Teach your son the “Five-Finger Test” to find books at the right level: Read one page of the book (or section of the magazine, comic book, website, etc). If there are more than five unknown words, choose something else to read.
Studies show that children are more motivated to read when they feel successful and can approach books with confidence.
Boys and reading
The gap between girls and boys may be less about reading ability than about attitudes. Literacy expert Carolyn Jaynes answers the question: How can we make reading more fun for boys?
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