I found this article today and thought it was really interesting! If your child doesn't enjoy sitting down and reading, maybe these creative/sneaky approaches will help!
1. Play board games. Scrabble or Boggle are specifically good for building vocabulary and spelling.
2. Collect trading cards. There are card series to appeal to most interests, from sports to space travel, Yu-Gi-Oh! to Beanie Babies.
3. Learn “how to.” Is there something your child would really like to do, such as perform magic tricks or add sequins to her jeans? Encourage her to find out how by reading about it.
4. Get cooking. Invite your child to help you bake a cake or a special meal together. If necessary, simplify and rewrite a recipe's instructions so they can read it to you.
5. Make cards. Have your child make her own cards for holidays, birthdays, party invitations, and thank-yous. Help her write a personal message to each recipient.
6. Create signs and labels. Help your early reader build his vocabulary by creating stickers or signs for his room that identify toys or furniture: "bike," "desk," etc.
7. Take a road trip. Write down travel directions and have your child serve as navigator when you drive. Give your co-pilot a map before you go, and ask her to mark the route according to the directions.
8. Put on a play. You can perform the play for a special celebration or family party. Help your child find an appealing script or create one together based on a favorite movie. Remind your child that he must memorize his lines by reading them over and over.
9. Write messages for your child. Even if you spend hours together in the same room, there are many reasons to write to your child. Drop a letter in her school bag or lunch box.
10. Host a scavenger hunt. Make a list of items that your child and his friends need to find inside your house or around the neighborhood. Provide written clues that lead to the treasures.
Source: www.scholastic.com
