These days, the unparalleled explosion of information using the internet has challenged parents, children, and teachers alike to reflect on the personal and academic benefits of reading. Lately, children are more exposed to television shows, DVD movies, and computer games for fun and learning instead of reading books. Parents nag because their children get tired in front of computers. Teachers complain since their pupils do not read their assigned readings and assignments. Children have less time to read books because they depend on Google or Wikipedia for almost all information. The instant acquisition of information using different Internet sites has changed the fundamental nature of reading.

            Here are some tips on how to make reading meaningful for children.

• Let your students catch you reading. This is what we call modeling. As teachers, we have to lead by example.
• Make reading a part of your classroom task. When students are required to read while they are in class this becomes part of their routine.
• Organize a book fair in your classroom. Invite students to bring whatever reading material they have at home. This will not give the teacher an idea of whatstudents are reading at home but also allow students to share and exchange their reading materials with their classmates.
• Create storytelling and book talk sessions among students. As students share their stories in class. Many will be inspired to read so they can either tell their story or do book talk in class based on why they have finished reading.
• Encourage your students to have a reading diary. When students monitor their reading, this will give them fulfillment knowing they have read a number of book/stories already.
• Compliment your students after reading. The best way to encourage students to read is to catch them reading so you can give flattering remarks to support their reading preferences.

Apart from the above mentioned tips, ensuring that children are given varied reading opportunities at home and in school will not only lead children to read books but also make them well rounded and responsible individuals.

By: Gloria P. Lumanglas | Teacher III | Lamao Elementary School | Limay, Bataan