How to Turn a Reluctant Reader into an Avid Reader

Reading Time: 2 min

Girl reading a book on a table

Reading apps are a fun and exciting way to help children learn important literacy skills while keeping them engaged in a meaningful way.  For reluctant readers, an online app like Lou Adventures can build their confidence in reading by enhancing skills in comprehension, fluency, and problem-solving skills.  Online reading apps offer reward systems, by advancing through the completion of goals.  This type of platform engages children for longer periods of time, increasing their critical thinking skills as they move through the clues to reach their next destination. 

Many studies indicate that the more a child reads, the better and more confident they become.  But the reverse is also true for reluctant readers.  The more they struggle, the more they will avoid the task, essentially causing them to fall further behind, fostering an even lower desire to read.  This downward spiral can wreak havoc on a child's reading development.  So what is to be done?  The real trick is to find a way to get them into an upward spiral.  A mission that many parents, caretakers and educators will tell you, is easier said than done. 

One way to reverse reading reluctance is to offer an online reading app that engages the child in a way that feels like a game or virtual adventure.  This gets them excited about reading and creates an internal reward system that moves them through several levels, with a strong desire to see what happens next.

Boy playing game on an ipad with headphones

Some secrets to encouraging reluctant readers:

●      Let children read for interest.

●      Don’t make reading a punishment or chore.

●      Make reading as interactive as possible.

●      Take away the pressure and make it fun!

●      Adults in the child’s life should model reading whenever possible.

Before all else, it is important to consider why a reader is reluctant. Reading choices should always be appropriate for the child’s skill level but finding interesting topics is what will make reading fun!  One question that parents, caregivers, or educators may ask is, “what is it that makes them not want to read?”  Once that question is answered, the next step is to find a solution that addresses the challenge. 

The idea of an adventure in a virtual world is very appealing, especially among boys ages seven to nine.  Start the journey of watching your reluctant reader turn into an avid reader with Lou the dog and his many adventures.

 
 

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