Kids and reading

iVillage Member
Registered: 02-21-2003
Kids and reading
11
Mon, 01-22-2007 - 9:26am

Hi all,

Although my DS is only 9, I'm posting here in hopes of getting some perspective from parents of teens -- especially those who didn't read much in earlier years but are now able to and/or interested in reading higher-level material.

My DS is attending a gifted program this year (Grade 4) and doing well. For all that, he has never been much of a reader, especially compared to his 10-year-old sister, who reads adult books. I think he's somehow decided that reading is his sister's "territory" -- i.e., she's so advanced that he doesn't have a hope of competing so he just won't go there. He has no problem with the mechanics of reading; he learned to read effortlessly at age 4 and was reading chapter books by 5. His reading comprehension is also ahead of grade level, according to the tests they give kids periodically at school. It's just that he doesn't choose to read.

I worry that he won't develop into a literate adult (and end up flipping burgers at Wendy's) if he doesn't read more. Any and all perspectives welcome!

Freelance

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iVillage Member
Registered: 12-14-2006
Tue, 01-23-2007 - 7:13am

My DS is only 7, but what I've noticed is like your son he sees "reading all the time" as his big sister's domain. It's changed a bit this year, because the teacher telss them they have to read every night - and can read anything they want.

I notice a difference between what he chooses to read and what I would like him to read. When he finds a book he likes, he reads more and without my prompting. They are sometimes books that are "too easy" but that's OK. Also, if he starts a book and doesn't love it, I tell him to put it away and choose something else. That way he associates reading with doing something fun. So what if it's Captain Underpants?! LOL it's still reading!

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