Share the Fun of Chapter Books

Books are fabulous, but they’re also easy for your mentee to take for granted. “After all,” he may think, “they’re always there when I want them, so what’s the hurry to pick one up?” It’s an understandable sentiment, even if it is unfortunate!

Luckily, there are many ways to keep your mentee enthusiastic about reading—and to get him excited about the idea of reading. One way is by introducing him to the pleasure of chapter books.

Here’s what to do:

1. Find a book you think your mentee will enjoy. Maybe it’s a classic from your own childhood, such as Charlotte’s Web, or a new title that comes highly recommended by your librarian. Either way, seek out a tale with lots of potential.
2. Take it slowly. Insist that your mentee read (or you read to him) just one or two chapters each time you are together. The forced waiting will make the time he does spend with the book all the more precious.
3. Discuss the book. When you’re not actually reading the story, take time to talk about it. Ask your mentee to predict what might happen next.
4. Build on the experience. Once you’ve finished a book he enjoyed, see if it has a sequel and read that one, too. If it doesn’t, ask your librarian to recommend similar stories or other titles that your child might enjoy.

Adapted from Today's Tip for Parents.