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New Year’s resolutions for kids: The reading resolutions your child needs

Here's why reading should be the only New Year's resolution for kids

Another new year is almost here and with it comes another chance to make a new change. But what about the children? Should parents help come up with New Year’s resolutions for kids? Absolutely, and reading is the ticket!

No matter what age your child is, there should be only one resolution on every kid’s list, and here’s why it should be the love of reading. With the help of expert Stephanie Marquis, product manager at reading.com, an affiliate of teaching.com, we’ve put together the perfect reading resolution, by age, for your family to stick to this year.

A father reading a book to their young child
Image used with permission by copyright holder

For kids under 5

If your little one doesn’t know what a book is yet, that doesn’t mean a reading resolution shouldn’t be in their future. Here’s how to get a younger one on board.

Lead by example

You need to read in front of your child as often as possible. Ideally every day, but at least every week.

Read to them every day

Trying to get your tot to sit still for a whole story may not be possible. Aim for 5-minute intervals to make it easier, and the total for the day to be 20 minutes.

The library is your friend

From free storytime sessions to the adorable children’s area and letting your kid pick out a book for themselves, make the library a weekly stop to help your child develop a healthy relationship with books.

Child reading with parents

For kids up to age 7

As your child enters their early reader stage, creating a reading routine to stick to becomes a little easier. Follow these steps for your young reader to keep their resolution.

Keep reading your own books

Kids soak up what they see the adults in their lives do. So, as your kids get older, it becomes more important for them to see you consistently reading.

Don’t stop reading to your children

Storytime isn’t just for the littles. Find a series that you’ll enjoy reading and your child will love hearing. Children benefit from reading out loud and being read to.

Get more acquainted with the library

Once your child is a little older, there are more advanced story activities available at the library.

Teen girl reading outside

For the older kids

You want to nurture the love of reading for as long as possible. That shouldn’t stop because your kid “gets too old” or hits high school.

Have your child read to you

While you make dinner, have your kiddo read to you. While you are doing cleanup, have your child be your background noise and read their favorite series.

Have them join a book club

Again, go to your local library, because they all have a teen book club group and host events. Having peers around them who enjoy reading will encourage your child to keep opening a book.

Instead of asking your child to make a New Year’s resolution to keep their room clean — because we all know that will only last a few weeks — ask them to make one that involves reading. Not only will you and your child strengthen your bond through the magic of words, but you’ll both have the perfect hobby for a life of adventure.

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Dannielle Beardsley
Dannielle has written for various websites, online magazines, and blogs. She loves everything celebrity and her favorite…
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