Encouraging Boys to Read

by Amber Covington  Rowan Public Library

Are you looking for ways to connect a young man with a book? There are several things to keep in mind. As a parent or caregiver we spend a lot of time with our children and finding ways to connect a boy with a book is a start to get him interested in reading. Talk or discuss various topics that interests the child and locate books about such things. All children look up to adults in their lives and generally model their habits after the adults they are around. Parents and caregivers are the main contact with children and are the leading role models to build strong readers and boys are more likely to mirror the actions of a male figure in their life. Find a way for fathers, stepfathers, uncles, or grandfathers to spend time reading with a boy. Building a boys reading interests can take form in a variety of ways with the help of any family members and always visit the local public library for reading materials and ideas or suggestions.

Growing up in a world with fast changing digital trends, Online games, gaming consoles, computers, and other technology devices are seen as major components of boy's life. Boys are more likely to read if the topics appeals to his interests. Also, books may not be the best way to get a boy’s attention for reading. Magazines, websites, blogs, newspapers, or comic books may attract them better. The most important thing is to let them begin to read material that interests them to build their reading habits.

Often times, women are the main people boys see reading or that teach them to read. As humans we all like to follow someone that looks like us. Men are great resources in young boys lives and can make a big difference in their reading habits. A father, stepfather, or grandfather can play an important part of encouraging boys to read because often boys look to them as behavior models. Often, boys see men reading magazines or newspapers. That is ok, encourage boys to pick up those if that is what makes them comfortable. Also, do not be discouraged if you are a single mother. Continue to spread joy in reading and encouragement, it means more than you think.

Pam Allyn, educator and author, has several suggestions to encourage parents, caregivers, and educators to instill reading in boys of all ages. Developer of the READ model, Pam Allyn believes boys can become lifelong readers. The model’s acronym stands for R-ritual, E- environment, A-access, and D-dialog.  

The model encourages parents and caregivers to establish a ritual for reading daily. Set aside time for daily reading as a family. Creating an inviting environment is a way to set the mood. Establish a reading corner or special bean bag in an area that is comfortable. Be sure to provide access to a variety of books, ebooks, magazines, newspapers, comic books, or baseball cards. It is also a good idea to expose readers to a variety of genres, authors, and reading levels to boost their child’s reading level comfort.  The local public library is a great place to check out books weekly or simply use your library card to download ebooks onto a device. It is critical for Parents and caregivers to create dialog with their child during and after reading. Have your child discuss their likes and dislikes or  openly express their opinion about what they are reading. There are several resources discussing the READ model and other reading practices from Pam Allyn. Check out “Pam Allyn’s Best Books for Boys: How to Engage Boys in Reading Ways That Will Change Their Lives.”

Don’t forget, your local library is your secret weapon to help your boys develop a love of reading. Boys best develop interests in reading through others encouraging them to pick up a book and read. It is critical that role models are clearly present in their lives and everyone is supportive.

Looking for ways to encourage a boy to read? Check out the following books at your local library branch.
“Serving Boys Through Readers’ Advisory,” by Michael Sullivan
“Get Those Guys Reading!: Fiction and Series Books that Boys Will Love by Kathleen A. Baxter and Marcia Agness Kochel.
“Pam Allyn’s Best Books for Boys: How to Engage Boys in Reading Ways That Will Change Their Lives,” by Pam Allyn.
“Reading Together: Everything You Need to Know to Raise a Child Who loves to Read,” by Diane W. Frankenstein
“Read With Me: Best Books for Preschoolers by Stephanie Zvirin
“Raising Passionate Readers: 5 Easy Steps to Success in School and Life, “ by Nancy Newman