Here's a quick and easy way to motivate your child to read that costs nothing more than the paper it takes to print a bookmark on. Start by choosing one of my eight Motivating Bookmark designs. Print it out, cut out, and fold lengthwise. Each bookmark has a method one one side for keeping track of how much reading is done -- either holes to be punched to mark progress, or stars for rating the material read. Figure out a reasonable goal for your child; you might punch that hole or circle those stars after a chapter read, or a few pages, or a picture book, whatever you find appropriate. When your child completes a bookmark's worth of reading, give a prearranged reward. Even the reward doesn't have to cost money -- see if your child will be motivated by extra TV or computer time, some undivided-attention-time with you, or even a day off from reading. Especially for kids who struggle with reading, having a goal to shoot for that 's shorter than the end of a book can make that time spent with words more meaningful.
More Thrifty Thursday from About.com Parenting:
- Ten No Cost/Low Cost Activities for Twins
- Kids Eat Free Deals for Every Day of the Week
- Forget the Staycation; Try a House Swap
Bookmark design by Terri Mauro