When we discuss the importance of reading, we often talk about children—rarely about teenagers. But at their age, reading is essential! Discover a few ways to help your teen develop an interest in books and reading.
The love of reading is contagious—to catch it, you just have to find the right book. To help your teenager develop a love of reading, try suggesting a book that matches their interests. Here are a few examples:
For more advice on finding books that suit your teenager’s interests, read our article about book genres.
Like all adolescents, your teenager is influenced by other people’s tastes. Rather than suggesting just any book, do some research on current trends. Here are some things to look for:
To help you with your research, use social media or ask a librarian.
Don’t underestimate the power of physical contact with books. The weight, scent, and cover of a book can all stimulate the desire to read. That’s why it’s a good idea to make regular trips to your local library or neighbourhood bookstore. They’re also the perfect places to discover new authors.
Designate a space in your home just for reading, away from the TV and electronic devices. You can furnish the space with the following items:
Teenagers imitate adults, so take the opportunity to lead by example. After dinner or on weekend afternoons, why not dive into a good book? The other members of your family might come join you to share in the enjoyment of escaping into a great story.