Instilling the Joy of Reading in our Children
Written by Nawika Sharma
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
Many people value reading as a hobby and want to instill this habit in their children. My question is, as a parent is reading your hobby, how much time and effort do you put in inculcating this habit among your kids. It's essential to reflect on our own approach to reading. Do we actively invest time and effort in cultivating this habit? Or do we simply accompany them to bookstores, mindlessly spending money on a book without even engaging with the reading material or are we the type of individuals who nags their kids to read while being consumed by social media?
One crucial aspect we often overlook is that children are keen observers who mirror our language, mannerisms, and habits. As responsible adults, we hold the power to shape their world. If we desire our children to immerse themselves in the world of reading, we must make it an enjoyable experience. Reading should not feel like a task, but rather a natural and organic hobby. A gentle nudge from us can set them on the path of exploration. Above all, we must dedicate our most precious resource – time – and become role models ourselves. By regularly picking up a book and reading in their presence, and by sharing and discussing stories with them, we ignite their interest and inspire them to embark on their own reading journey.
I find Twinkle Khanna’s approach of nurturing the reading habit in her child both simple and highly effective. She has created a cozy reading corner where both of them spend their time immersed in the world of books. Their shared reading sessions, with a minimum goal of 25 pages per day, not only instill discipline but also ignites a deep passion for reading. This is a practical and achievable framework for parents who aspire to cultivate a life long reading habit in their own children.
Reading is not just a hobby; it is a gift we give to our children that lasts a lifetime. It is a passion that not only brings joy but also contributes immensely to their personal growth and self-reflection. As parents, we have the incredible opportunity to create a world where we can enrich their minds with knowledge, imagination, and empathy. So embark on this journey together with them and create a world of wonder and exploration through the joy of reading.