Getting kids to read more

How do you get kids to put down their electronics and pick up a book? It’s not easy. Studies are showing that kids, at an alarming rate, are not reading books. Electronics are stealing the spotlight and we have to work hard to educate and inspire our kids as to the benefits of reading a book.

Here are some interesting facts:

· A University of California, Berkeley study showed that reading a book exposed readers to 50 percent more words that prime time TV, or even a conversation between college graduates.

· Scientific studies have shown that people who read books are more understanding, empathetic and better in complex social relationships. (I want my kids to have all those)

· A Sussex University study showed that reading may reduce stress by as much as 68 percent. (good for kids and us adults)

· A Mayo Clinic study showed that screen time (e-book, TV, computer) at night will keep you up longer and even hurt your sleep.

· 75 percent of parents wish their children would read more for fun. A Scholastic reports suggests that reading out loud to kids throughout their elementary years increased reading levels. More than 40 percent of frequent reader’s ages six through ten were read to out loud at home, but only 13 percent of those who did not read often for fun were.

· A study of 17,000 people tracked over several years linked reading for pleasure, at least once per week, between the ages of 10 and 16 to greater intellectual progress, in vocabulary, spelling and mathematics. As adults, we understand the statistics. The challenge is to get the kids to buy in and pick up a book.

One important step is helping kids find books that they love, not like, love. The more interested they are, the more willing they will be to continue reading and the more likely to pick up the next book. Search and explore with your kids to find new and exciting books for them to read. And remember, it’s not just for fun, it’s proven to help them in countless ways.

(The author’s mission is to connect with elementary age kids to inspire them to Read, Write and Enjoy the Outdoors. Using his love for the outdoors, one of a kid book series and a unique western twist, he has fired up thousands of kids.) Kevin Lovegreen

Author/Speaker

www.KevinLovegreen.com