Smart Start

What to do when Junior doesn’t love books, and more tips to help him learn better.

READ TO HIM
My K2 child started an accelerated reading programme and can now read better than his peers. But he still doesn’t love books.
You were not wrong to sign him up but it’s wonderful that you are reflecting on the value of the class now. Reading is vital for success in school and life, and we all want to give our children everything needed to become fluent readers. If your son is reading above the average level for his peers, then he has gained the skills required. What you want to instil in him now is a desire to read and a love of books. In order for him to stop seeing reading as a chore, start reading to him – and don’t expect him to read to you. Ask him to choose the books. Show your child how much you value reading for pleasure by doing just that at home.

LANGUAGE DILEMMA
We don’t speak Mandarin at home, so how do I know what to look for when choosing a Mandarin enrichment class?

For learning to be effective for young children, it must be engaging and meaningful. So, look for a class where there are a number of interesting activities that will encourage children to communicate in Mandarin. Classes that involve rote learning, and situations where the children feel pressured to give correct answers, may only turn your child off. As you do not speak the language at home, don’t choose a class that would involve homework or follow-up that you may not be able to do. When visiting a potential class, look at how friendly the teachers are, and how involved and happy the children seem to be. Ensure the curriculum suits your child’s level of Mandarin.

Read the June 2010 issue of Young Parents for more expert tips on how to help Junior learn better.