It’s More Than Just Books: Helping Children Discover a Love for Reading

As a teacher, one of the questions I receive most often from parents is, “Is my child reading at their grade level?” While reading skills are certainly important, there is another question that matters just as much: “Does my child enjoy reading?” 

Children who love reading do not just become stronger readers. They also develop important learning skills, becoming curious thinkers, stronger communicators, and creative problem-solvers. 

A love for reading is not about finishing the longest book or reading the fastest. It is about creating a meaningful experience with each book a child reads and turning reading into an adventure rather than a task. 

As a fourth-grade Language Arts teacher, one of my favorite moments is visiting our Media Center. It is exciting to watch students search for their next book. Some take their time looking through fiction stories, while others prefer discovering a new topic through nonfiction. These moments remind me that reading begins with curiosity. 

Choosing the Right Book 

One of the best ways to encourage children to read is by giving them the opportunity to choose books that genuinely interest them. When students connect with a book, they want to keep reading. 

Some students prefer fantasy or graphic novels, while others are interested in sports, animals, history, or science. Whatever their preference, books can become a doorway to learning. 

When my students choose a book they are excited about, reading no longer feels like an assignment. Every time a student reaches for a book from our classroom library, there is an opportunity to discover a story or topic that motivates them to continue reading. 

Parents can create this same excitement at home by visiting libraries and bookstores together or by creating a small reading space where children are free to explore and choose books on their own. 

Reading With a Purpose 

Reading is about much more than understanding the words on a page. Strong readers actively think while they read. 

In our classroom, I often pause and encourage students to connect with their books. What is the character feeling? Have I ever felt that way? Does this story remind me of another book or something happening in the world? 

These connections may seem simple, but they help children understand stories at a deeper level. When a student stops and asks, “How does this remind me of something I know?” they become an engaged reader who is thinking critically instead of simply turning pages. 

Parents can encourage these connections with questions such as: 

- Why do you think the character feels this way? 
- What do you think will happen next? 
- Has anything like this ever happened to you? 
- Does this remind you of another book or movie? 

Asking questions like these shows children that reading is not about finding one correct answer. It is about thinking, wondering, and making meaning from what they read. 

Reading Together Still Matters 

Reading with my class is one of my favorite parts of the day. As children grow and become more independent readers, families sometimes stop reading aloud together. However, shared reading continues to be valuable throughout the Lower School years. 

Sharing a story creates opportunities to laugh together, discuss a character’s choices, explore different perspectives, and start conversations that might not otherwise happen. 

These moments do more than strengthen reading skills. They also create meaningful connections between children and their families. 

It Is Not About Perfection, It Is About Progress 

In class, we understand that every reader develops at their own pace. Some students gain confidence quickly, while others need more time and practice. 

I always try to celebrate the small victories: finishing a chapter, recommending a book to a friend, discovering a new author, or simply choosing to visit the Media Center during a break. 

These celebrations remind children that their effort matters. At home, even if your child reads for only 10 minutes, noticing and acknowledging that effort can help build a positive relationship with reading. 

One day, my students may forget a vocabulary quiz or an assignment, but they will remember the stories that made them laugh, think, work together, and dream. 

When families and Colegio Menor work together to create positive reading experiences, we help our students develop much more than reading skills. We help them become thoughtful, compassionate, and curious individuals who are eager to continue learning. 

The best gift I can give my students is not simply teaching them how to read. It is helping them discover that every book has the power to teach them something about the world, something about themselves, and that reading truly is about more than just books. 

Discover Learning at Colegio Menor Samborondón 

At Colegio Menor Samborondón, we create learning experiences that encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning. 

 

Author 

Arturo Argudo

4th Grade - Language Arts Teacher - Colegio Menor Samborondon