Denver Mayor Michael Hancock reads to students at the Pascual LeDoux Academy on Sept. 24, 2013. (Denver Post file)
Re: “Want kids to learn math? Stop forcing it on so many,” April 6 Susan Engel column.
Susan Engel details the importance of reading in supporting abstract and critical thought in a range of subjects. So what can parents do to help promote a love of reading among kids?
Get to know your kids’ reading interests. Research tells us self-selection of books is key in encouraging kids to read. Allowing kids to select their own books, grounded in their interests and passions, is key to encourage reading.
Make a ritual out of reading. Establish a time every day when the family reads together, either aloud or individually.
Talk the book talk. Reading books is just one factor in creating a culture of reading. Families also need to talk about books. Don’t stop your nightly dinner conversation at, “What did you learn today?” Rather, ask, “What did you read today?” And share your answers as well.
Amy Friedman,Denver
The writer is president and CEO of Book Trust.
This letter was published in the April 10 edition.
Submit a letter to the editor via this form or check out our guidelines for how to submit by e-mail or mail.
