In today’s digital age, where screens have become ubiquitous, it’s a common concern among parents to encourage a more traditional form of learning and entertainment – reading. 

A solid foundation in reading not only boosts academic performance but also enriches creativity, empathy, imagination and understanding of the world. So, in partnership with The Week Junior, we’ve created a practical guide for dads on how to make the pages turn and nurture a love of reading in their children.

Lead by Example

• Children often mirror their parents’ behaviours. Make reading a family activity and let your kids see you enjoy a good book, newspaper or magazine. Your enthusiasm can be infectious!

Let them read anything

• Books can often put a child off – the thought of reading a whole book can be daunting, or the lack of pictures. And this is where The Week Junior is so great – it has a story for every interest, presented in both short & long form text, interspersed with relevant images, pictures, quizzes and games. And, they’re still reading! 

Create a Reading-friendly Environment

• Designate a quiet, comfortable reading corner in your home.
• Keep a variety of age-appropriate books easily accessible.
• Make regular visits to the library, a routine your kids can look forward to. So many libraries now offer more than they used to. Going to the library can be a day’s activity, not just a quick trip.

Choose Books Together

• Involve your children in selecting books. Understanding their interests and preferences makes it more likely they’ll be excited about reading.

Utilise Technology

• If your child is more inclined towards gadgets, e-books and audiobooks can be a good bridge to the world of literature. Audiobooks are so underrated and yet can be an absolute game-changer in nurturing that love for reading. 

Be Patient and Encouraging

• Every child’s reading journey is unique. Celebrate their progress, no matter how small, and keep the emphasis on enjoyment rather than achievement.

Interactive Reading

• Read together, discuss the stories, and encourage them to imagine and create their own tales. This can help in enhancing their comprehension and creative thinking skills. Sometimes it’s difficult to know who is having more fun when Dad is doing the characters voices… 

Link Reading to Real-world Activities

• If a book mentions a place or activity, try to experience it together. This creates a deeper connection to the reading material and makes reading more engaging and relevant. Again, The Week Junior can assist with this because it’s filled with stories from real life, all around the world and written in a child-appropriate way. 

Stay Positive

• Encountering resistance is normal. Stay positive, keep experimenting with different genres and formats, and remember, fostering a love for reading is a marathon, not a sprint.

Engage in Reading Communities

•  Enroll in reading groups or book clubs which cater to young readers. This social aspect can make reading more enjoyable and less solitary.

By taking these steps, you can lay down the foundation of a lifelong love for reading in your children. Engaging with them on this rewarding journey not only enriches their minds but also strengthens the bond shared between father and child. 

So, why wait? Dive into the boundless world of the written word and explore the endless possibilities together! Oh and of course, take up The Week Junior’s offer of 6 free issues!