Pakistan
Reading is a valuable virtue that provides us with endless opportunities to learn. While we can acquire knowledge through various means such as observation, touch, or lecture, reading remains the most effective way of absorbing information. It opens up the limitless potential for understanding and growth. It's crucial to inculcate a passion for reading among our children since it fosters an affinity towards learning. In today's era of digital advancements where short videos are pervasive and wreaking havoc on their attention spans, encouraging them to read is all the more imperative. We must impart values like focus, concentration, and love for books early on so they develop into successful readers later in life.
In one of the first verses revealed to Allah's Messenger (PBUH), The Holy Quran emphasizes the significance of reading as a means for acquiring knowledge.
"Recite in the name of your Lord who brought you into being; From a mere clot, He fashioned humanity. Recite and know that your Lord is exceedingly generous, Who imparted knowledge through writing."
The verse states that God imparted new knowledge to humans.
The Qura’an also says:
“… Say, ‘Are those who know equal to those who do not know?’
Only those who possess intellect take admonition.” (39:9)
We will guide you on how to encourage your children to read and provide some English language suggestions for them.
If you want to raise a reader, be a reader:
Children learn by example, which is why we must demonstrate positive reading habits. We should prioritize setting aside time and creating a conducive environment for book reading.
Read to your babies
Studies have shown that reading to infants enhances their language acquisition, understanding abilities, and speaking proficiency. The genre of literature read is irrelevant - whether it be the Qur'an or a novel like Harry Potter. What demonstrates importance here is your vocalization directed specifically at them with consistent patterns in speech rhythms. Consequently, doing so helps facilitate developmental learning for babies!
Focus on important learning elements
As you read to your children, particularly during the stage where they begin comprehending better, it's vital to highlight aspects of the narrative that can resonate with them. Emphasize figures, hues numerals creatures, and amusing noises - like those produced by five plump purple elephants who bellowed mightily! By engaging with content their minds can comprehend effectively, kids will bond with the story while simultaneously acquiring knowledge.
Read what your child likes
Discover books that align with your child's interests by asking them what topics they are curious about. Keep an open mind and let their answers surprise you - whether it be tales of heroic knights, conversing critters, or classic literature such as Jane Eyre, providing reading materials on subjects they care about is likely to boost their appetite for reading overall. This strategy can further foster a love of learning within children by showing them how texts can expand upon the things that interest them most!
Ask them what they’re reading
Encourage your child's independence as a reader by asking about their reading materials and enjoying the excitement that lights up their face. Sharing stories is not only an excellent way to connect with them, but it also lets you understand what kind of content they enjoy exploring while encouraging further reading growth- creating meaningful bonds along the way!
Here are some books we recommend to get your little one started reading:
First, a few classics for young children:
Where the Wild Things Are
Maurice Sendak's small but mighty book is a timeless masterpiece. It recounts the story of Max, a young boy who gets hurled into an untamed jungle and rises to become ruler over its inhabitants - the "Wild Things," kindly monsters that love fun as much as he does. The novel delves deeply into quintessential aspects of childhood psychological progression by dealing with how children can conquer tedium, anxiety, and outrage.
Oh The Places You’ll Go
Dr. Seuss' timeless masterpiece is a popular choice for both baby showers and commencement ceremonies as it captures the essence of life's journey, filled with ups and downs that tug at your heartstrings. Suitable for children's amusement yet powerful enough to move adults to tears - this literary gem was Dr. Seuss' final published work before his passing.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
The lifecycle of a caterpillar is charmingly showcased in this delightful children's book. Beginning on Sunday, the protagonist yearns for sustenance and consumes an escalating amount of fruit throughout the week until he overindulges and becomes ill! He then wraps himself tightly within a cocoon before reemerging after two weeks have passed. This remarkable literary work holds incredible educational significance as it employs vivid hues, numbers, and names of diverse fruits while also imparting knowledge regarding these fascinating creatures' natural traits alluring to young minds.
Now, a few chapter books for developing readings:
The Chronicles of Narnia
For kids looking to delve into the fantasy genre, this seven-part series is an excellent starting point. It's lighter and less intricate than Lord of The Rings or Harry Potter yet still maintains a sense of innocence, light-heartedness, and excitement.
The Magic Treehouse
These books are a must-have for elementary school children. They offer an enjoyable and whimsical journey of two siblings traveling through time with their magical treehouse, exploring significant historical events as well as imaginary worlds. These stories will ignite your child's imagination and sense of curiosity in the world around them.
The Wind In The Willows
In Edwardian England, Mr. Toad, Mole, and Ratty enjoy the company of other impeccably dressed animals who can talk. Their whimsical escapades are charmingly innocent and low-key, making it an ideal read for children who love all things animal-related in a delightfully old-fashioned way.
