Guide for Dads: Introducing Variety (slowly)

Often, children will want to read the same book many times. That is excellent! The repeated reading may be boring to an adult, but children enjoy the familiarity and security of an old friend. Plus, each additional reading may bring new understanding and new interpretations.

Similarly, some children, like Jason, may only want to read one type of book, such as adventures, or only books on one topic, such as sports. Reading many similar books has it benefits, as children deepen their knowledge of that type of book or of that topic. Soon, they may know more than their dads!
 
However, there can be too much of a good thing. To help children move away from always reading the same few books, types of books or books on the same topic, dads can encourage children to select a combination of books. One can be a favorite book that the child cannot seem to get enough of; another can be something new that you enthusiastically recommend.

Finally, it is also important that dads choose books that we adults can be enthusiastic about, because enthusiasm is contagious. Perhaps, children are not very keen about reading at a particular time or reading a particular book, but the sparkle in dad’s eye and the excitement in his voice may sweep them along.

Dad reminder: You can start to read to your kids at ANY age. It’s fun for the kids and dad. It really is a dad duty!

- George Jacobs, Ph.D. and Wan Loh Inn, Ed.D.

Dr. George Jacobs, Ph.D. and Dr. Wan Loh Inn, Ed.D. are the authors of many books (including “The Read Aloud Guide”, textbooks for teachers and students, curriculum guides, and children’s storybooks).

Find out more about reading aloud to your kids.