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Do you remember when your little one used to curl up with a book for hours? Or how their face lighted up when you read “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” to them (for the nth time). I know you miss those moments. Now that they’ve grown up, they spend most of their time on their phones. Is this a lost cause, or can we encourage teens to love reading again?
The good news is that you can still bring out the bookworm in your child. This article reveals how they can enjoy reading without forcing it on them. These tips can help restore their love for a hobby once close to their hearts.
Is Screen Time Taking Over Teens’ Lives?
Do you know that, on average, an American teen spends 7.5 hours on their mobile devices daily? The time spent glued to their screens is alarming. It’s way more than the recommended amount of two hours per day.
Undoubtedly, devices such as phones and tablets can teach teens about technology. However, spending a third of their day scrolling through social media or watching videos can do more harm than good.
Studies show that too much screen time can lead to low sleep quality, poor self and body image, and mood issues. It can adversely affect a child’s academic performance. Phone addiction can also strain relationships with family and friends.
A Child Reading Books is Happier and Healthier
Most of the time, smartphones reign supreme in our teenager’s lives. Consequently, reading takes a backseat. Yet, as parents, we can unlock a treasure trove of benefits by encouraging our kids to pick up a book.
Reading can shape and mold our adolescents into thriving, empathetic, and resilient adults. They can also reap the rewards of the following advantages:
- Mental Stimulation
Reading is like a mental workout for your teen’s brain. It stimulates their imagination, sharpens their critical thinking, and expands their vocabulary. It’s an exercise they need to stay sharp.
- Improved Empathy
Books are windows into different worlds and perspectives. Teens can dive into characters’ lives from various backgrounds. Because of this, they can develop empathy and a deeper understanding of the human experience.
- Reduced Stress
The immersive power of a good book can transport teens to another realm. It can offer them a respite from school and societal pressures. Going on a literary journey reduces stress and promotes mental well-being.
- Enhanced Communication Skills
Reading promotes language development and enhances communication skills. Teens who read regularly tend to express themselves more eloquently in writing and speaking.
- Boosted Academic Performance
The benefits of reading extend beyond the pages. Teens who read often tend to perform better academically. This is due to their broader knowledge base and better comprehension skills.
- Increased Creativity
Reading sparks creativity by exposing teens to different storytelling styles, genres, and artistic expression. It encourages them to think outside the box and fosters creative problem-solving.
- Cultivating a Lifelong Hobby
Encouraging teens to love reading now sets the stage for a lifelong love of books. It can become a hobby that offers endless joy and personal growth.
- Parent-Teen Bonding
Love for literature can be a shared experience. Reading the same book as your teen gives you common ground for discussions and strengthens your bond.
- Building Resilience
Stories often depict characters overcoming adversity. Teens can draw inspiration from these tales, learning to face their challenges with determination and resilience.
- Preparation for the Future
In a world driven by information, strong reading skills are essential. Teens who read regularly are better prepared for higher education and future career success.
How to Spark the Love of Reading in Your Teens at Home
Encouraging your teenager to embrace the world of books doesn’t have to feel like a Herculean task. In fact, it can be a joyful journey of discovery for both you and your teen. Here are gentle and effective ways to nurture a love for reading without resorting to coercion or pressure.
Create a Reading-Friendly Environment
Make your home a haven of books. Have shelves filled with a variety of reading materials accessible to your teen. Include various genres – fantasies, biographies, or graphic novels would be best. A well-stocked bookshelf can pique their curiosity.
Create a Cozy Reading Nook
Design a comfortable reading space in your home. It could be a corner with a comfy chair, soft lighting, and blankets. Adding their favorite things- artwork, photos, or even their childhood teddy bear- would make it more personal. A cozy spot can make the hobby more inviting.
Be a Reading Role Model
Let your teen see you, put down your phone, and read. Be it a novel, a magazine, or even a newspaper. Showing them that reading is an enjoyable adult activity can speak volumes. You’ll also be surprised at how much it can change your life.
Read Aloud Together
Surprisingly, a child is never too old for a read-aloud. You can share the joy of storytelling by reading your favorite book together. Bonding over Shakespeare or Emily Dickinson could be a memorable experience for both of you. Take turns or let them recite a chapter aloud.
Incorporate Books into Daily Life
Discuss interesting articles or news stories from magazines or the internet at dinner. It doesn’t have to be about serious stuff. Try to bring up topics that resonate with them. For instance, talk about something you read about their favorite band, restaurant, or travel destination. Show that reading is relevant in daily life.
Gift Books Thoughtfully
Give books as presents on special occasions, tailoring your choices to your teen’s preferences. It’s a thoughtful gesture that your child would surely appreciate. You could even assemble a themed gift basket. Pack the book with a nice mug, chocolates, scented candles, and a plush blanket.
Celebrate Reading Achievements
Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s reading milestones. Whether it’s finishing a challenging book or reaching a certain number of pages, praise their efforts. The rewards do not have to be fancy. A cup of their favorite latte or a cute shirt would be great ideas.
Encourage Peer Recommendations
Encourage your teen to ask friends for book recommendations. Sometimes, a peer’s suggestion can be more appealing than a parent’s. Invite them for a “book exchange” party where they bring their favorite reads to share.
More Ways to Teach Your Teens to Love Reading
Setting up the home and daily routines are crucial steps that can support reading. We’ve added more tips to help you boost your child’s interest in books.
Let them Join Book Clubs or Reading Groups
Encourage your teen to join a book club or reading group. Public libraries usually organize these groups. Your child may even start one! Discussing books with peers can be fun and intellectually stimulating.
Respect Their Choices
Allow your teen to choose what they want to read. Give them the freedom to enjoy a book even if it’s not your preferred genre. Just make sure the books are age-appropriate. Respecting their choices shows that you value their independence and individuality.
Set Realistic Expectations
Avoid imposing strict reading goals or deadlines. Let your teen read at their own pace. Pressuring them can turn the hobby into a chore. A gentle and positive approach will make them love reading.
Visit the Library Together
Plan regular trips to the local library as a family outing. Allow your teen to explore and choose books that genuinely interest them. Let her apply for a library card to borrow books to read at home. Libraries often host events that can further ignite their reading passion.
Go on Bookstore Adventures
Go on a bookstore date with your teen at least once a month. Set aside time for them to browse and pick a book they fancy. It would also be nice to give them a budget specifically for this trip. The excitement of owning a new book can be a powerful motivator.
Connect Reading to Interests
Find books related to your teen’s hobbies or interests. It can be about their favorite sports, music, or places. Science fans could find joy in the sci-fi genre. Remember that a well-chosen book can kindle their passion.
Book-to-Movie Nights
After reading a book together, have a movie night to watch the adaptation. It can spark discussions about how books often offer richer experiences. You could also do the reverse and see the film first. It could make them more excited about knowing more details about the story.
Recommended Books for Teens
Here’s a handpicked list of compelling books recommended for the curious minds of teens. They span various genres and themes, offering entertainment and opportunities for personal growth and discussion.
The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline
If your teen is into dystopian themes, this book is for them. It narrates the adventures of an indigenous young woman who flees her home and joins a group of people fighting tyranny. It explores identity, loss, and resilience.
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Your teen will learn about history in this Pulitzer Prize-winning book. It reveals the story of a blind French girl and a German orphan who collide during World War II. It is a beautifully written and unforgettable story about the power of human connection.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
A young booklover’s heart could draw inspiration from this bestselling novel. It is about a young girl sent to live with foster parents in Nazi Germany. Endearing yet sometimes heartbreaking, it amplifies the power of literature and how it can give hope during dark times.
The Giver by Lois Lowry
This book brings young readers into a world without pain, color, or choice. However, when a young man becomes the Receiver of Memory, he learns the dark secrets his community is hiding. It is a tale that would elicit introspective thoughts on birth, death, love, and loss.
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
It would be refreshing for your teen to read about kindness, acceptance, and the importance of seeing people for who they are on the inside. In this book, they’ll meet Auggie. He is a young boy with an unusual facial deformity and attends mainstream school after being homeschooled for the first time.
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
Many teens would enjoy reading about romance. This novel brings them to Hazel and Gus’ love story amidst their struggles with terminal disease. It’s funny, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful, showcasing the power of the human spirit.
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
Young adult readers would appreciate a tale about friendship, loyalty, and the value of finding your place in the world. In this coming-of-age novel, the author reveals the conflicts of the Greasers and the Socs, two rival gangs.
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Your child would be delighted with this heartwarming and thought-provoking novel. It shares the story of a young woman given the chance to live different versions of her life. They’ll learn about regret, second chances, and how to live one’s life to the fullest.
The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune
A teen who loves fantastical tales as a child may find this book interesting. It’s a whimsical and heartwarming story about a social worker sent to investigate an orphanage for magical children.
The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
A captivating prose, this novel tells the story of Achilles and Patroclus, two warriors who fall in love during the Trojan War. This unique love story will keep your teens busy for hours.
Circe by Madeline Miller
Surely, a story about empowerment would get your approval. This novel tells the story of Circe, a Greek goddess often misunderstood and feared. Your teen will dive into self-discovery and hopefully get inspired to find her own voice.
The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi
Young fans of crime and mystery stories will love this novel. It’s a thrilling historical fantasy about a young treasure hunter hired to investigate a series of baffling murders. Let our teens go on an adventure as they pore into the pages.
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
Are your teens into dragons, kingdoms, and epic adventures? Then this book deserves a space on your shelves. It’s girl power through and through. Three young women destined to save the world fight off a larger-than-life enemy.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
This book might be “old” by a teenager’s standard. However, it’s still worth a try. It’s a classic dystopian thriller about a young woman who volunteers to take her younger sister’s place in a deadly competition. It is an exciting and suspenseful read. Your child will thank you later for recommending this, for sure.
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
If you loved this classic as a child, you can share your joy with your teen. It’s an epic lore about fighting evil and celebrating friendship.
The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
Can science fiction and comedy go together? This novel proves it can. Your teen would enjoy this hilarious and thought-provoking story. It is a fun and wild ride that will keep them entertained from beginning to end.
Inspire Your Teens to Enjoy Reading
Encouraging young adults to love reading is a gift that will keep giving. It molds their minds, nurtures their hearts, and equips them with essential life skills. However, competing with a phone’s influence can be tricky in today’s connected world.
Fortunately, many ways can spark an adolescent’s interest in books. With our love, time, and support, we can help them unlock a world of possibilities that reading offers. It’s an investment in their future, and the dividends are immeasurable.
![Parenting a strong-willed, sensitive child is challenging. We want to preserve their spirit while effectively parenting them. This is how to work with your child's temperament and improve cooperation. My first strong-willed, sensitive child was my daughter. Shortly after she was born, many described my baby girl as an old soul. As an infant, her eyes were wide with curiosity. With a serious expression on her face, it was as if she was analyzing everything. As an infant, she was a happy baby. However, she got overstimulated easily and was quick to let me know when I needed to take her out of a crowded room. Her first day of preschool was another example of how her personality plays out. She had her backpack ready days before the first day of school. Once she was packed, she was furious she couldn't go to school that instant. When the first day of school came, she lept with joy. When we pulled into the parking lot, she told me to wait in the car and let her walk in on her own. Considering the fact she was three and not thirteen, the answer to that demand has a hard no. I did my best to keep with my two-year-old son on my hip as my little girl burst through the rusty red school doors. In the classroom, her whirlwind of excitement came to a screeching halt as she saw another girl crying. My daughter's desire to leave me in the dust tapered. Her big brown eyes got even darker as the empathy she felt for the girl washed over her. "She's sad, Mama." My daughter didn't know how to reconcile the dissonant emotions. She was excited to leave me while another child was brokenhearted that her mom had left. Thankfully, this situation acted as an opportunity for both girls to make a friend before class started. (They felt the cloakroom holding hands and were best friends for the rest of the school year.) This example of the juxtaposition of my daughter's strong-will and sensitivity is one of many. But my son is also highly sensitive and willful. Because of this, our days are punctuated by headstrong and emotional reactions. For example, when a soccer game got too rough, my son made his way to the sidelines, crossed his arms, and refused to get back on the field. And, the other day, decided to set up a lemonade stand, they went toe-to-toe over whether or not a lemonade stand can carry drinks other than lemonade. They argued about the best place to set up the stand. And, when no one came to their sale, they were both crestfallen. Related reading: Parenting a Strong-Willed Child? These are the best books to increase cooperation Parenting a strong-willed, sensitive child is challenging. If you can relate to examples like these, chances are you find parenting your child to be dynamic and, at times, exhausting. There is no autopilot for parenting these precocious and emotional souls. This is because strong-willed children take nothing at face value. They are forever trying to determine what the boundaries are and will always try to negotiate. Furthermore, these children are acutely aware of changes in their environment, have big hearts, and equally big emotional reactions. So often, children of this nature pick battles or are devastated over things like: being served big carrots you cut for them instead of mini carrots, you suggesting they wear a pair of pants that "feel funny," a change in plans, like having to wait to go to the aquarium because the baby hasn't woken from his nap. The good news. Strong-willed, sensitive children are naturally equipped with some of the greatest predictors of lifelong success. For one, they are naturally tenacious. When a strong-willed child doesn't get her way, she brainstorms, negotiates, and presses the issue. For instance, when their lemonade stand failed, my children eventually decided to add more items, a price list, and find a higher traffic location (they set up right near a construction site.) As a result, they both came home happy, clenching about $3 in change each. In addition to grit, these children are more inclined to be leaders and stand up for what's right. Laura Markham, clinical psychologist at Columbia University explains, [Strong-willed children] are usually self-motivated and inner-directed, and often grow into leaders as adults. They are more impervious to peer pressure and go after what they want with more gusto. They want to “learn things for themselves rather than accepting what others say, so they test the limits over and over,” and this relates to relationships as well. Such discernment involves not only when they cut their hair, eat vegetables, or choose to wear a coat, but also in whom they decide to trust and in whom they choose to follow or who they allow themselves to be influenced by. Finally, emotionally intelligent people tend to have better job performance (1). And, highly sensitive people tend to be empathetic, smart, and contentious (2). How do you know you have a strong-willed, sensitive child? Children who have strong-willed temperaments tend to: be prone to power struggles, question authority and rules, be bright and persistent, frequently test authority figures (parents, babysitters, substitute teachers, extended family) to see determine what the boundaries are, protest readily when expectations seem unfair, carry arguments on for longer and farther than one would anticipate (3). Children who are highly sensitive tend to: be very intuitive, learn better with gentle correction rather than harsh punishment, notice when others are bothered or upset, feel emotions deeply, picks up on subtle changes (such as the "slightest unusual odour") asks a lot of questions, is very sensitive to pain. You can take the Highly Sensitive Child test, developed based Dr Elaine Aron's research, here. As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 5 key strategies that make parenting a strong-willed, sensitive child easier. Frame your child's behaviour. By understanding your strong-willed, sensitive child, you have context for your child's behaviour and are better equipped to coach it. Work with your child's personality by establishing the family rules together. Call a family meeting and discuss problems as well as goals. Prompt your children to talk about what rules they think are reasonable as well as how they should be reminded when mistakes are made. In this situation, you are still the parent and you are guiding the discussion while collaborating to accomplish peace and cooperation in your household. Frontload as often as possible. This means to look for every chance to give your child a heads-up before disappointment strikes, plans change, or the going gets tough. This will make it so much easier for her to be resilient when she feels challenged. Make boundaries firm and discipline gentle. Strong-willed children need to know what rules are non-negotiable. This minimizes power struggles and also facilitates confidence in a child. Research shows that sensitive children feel the most vulnerable when boundaries aren't clear (3). Equally, discipline must be calm and gentle. Studies on sensitive children show that they hold themselves highly accountable for their mistakes (4). In cases of misbehaviour, the best approach is a subtle reminder or in more extreme cases a timeout where you're with your child. When appropriate and with your child's permission, explain your child's temperament to others. Some may mistakenly think your child is intentionally being too sensitive or strong-willed. Others may not know how to make sense of your child's nature. By giving context to who your child is, the adults in your child's life will be better equipped to take care of and guide him. A final note on sensitive and strong-willed children Strong-willed, sensitive children require patience and consideration. They aren't easy to raise, but their temperament gives them the innate capacity to become compassionate and meaningful leaders. The key is to work with their personality while increasing cooperation. To do so, the adults in their lives must work with them instead of against them, be clear with their expectations but gentle with their discipline, and act as their advocate where appropriate. In doing so, adults are able to guide the child in a way that celebrates who she is. This then gives the child to truly become the person she is meant to be.](https://parentfromheart.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/strong-willed-child-upset.jpg)
