IS JUNIOR READING RIGHT?

Here’s expert help for all your nagging questions.

My child is very picky about what he reads. How can I encourage him to expand his range? Some children may be hooked on a series of books by one author, or books of a particular theme. Dr Karuppiah says kids will usually grow out of it. But if you really want your child to read a wide variety of books, ease him into the change slowly. When you visit the library or bookstore, pick one or two books that you would like him to read, but let him choose the other books himself.

My primary school child thinks books without pictures are boring. How can I help him get over this?
Zubaidah says the transition from picture books to wordier ones is understandably daunting. But many publications from the Simple Fiction category still contain illustrations. These are good books to start with.

You could also choose those that are more graphical in nature, such as the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. Tomes like these appeal to kids because of the humour in both text and illustrations. Although some people have reservations about the value of comics, such graphical adaptations may help children embrace formerly avoided materials.

Why does my kid like slapstick humour and books about poop and farts?
Humorous stories have great appeal to kids, Zubaidah points out. Rather than discourage these reads, provide ample choice for your children. Humour exists across all genres, and you can expose your kid to the different types of humour and wit in books.

Read the June 2011 issue of Young Parents for the Reading Issue, and more expert advice and local tips to make you a better mum or dad.