There probably isn’t any student in this world that hasn’t been told about the virtues of reading and how important it is for us all to inculcate this habit in our daily curriculum. In today’s day and age, when electronic media has completely dominated the markets as well as seeped into our lives, do the hardbound and paperbacks hold as much charm as they possessed earlier? Unsurprisingly, books have totally become obsolete, or at least that’s what the modern generation thinks.
It is a good idea to read out to children when they are very young. At this age, choosing books with lesser words and more of pictures is better. Don’t try forcing children to read a particular type of book. Let them form an interest and then gradually introduce what you think is right. Forcing a child will not yield positive results. Most children resist doing the thing they are forced to do. 
Having a reading time when the whole family reads also helps. It is a good idea to buy books of your child’s favorite cartoon character. This way, you will keep them happy and interested as well as meet your objective quite easily.
A book allowance in addition to the other pocket money encourages a child to invest in books. Suggest books and authors to your child. Children follow by example, so would consequently read what their parents read. Frequently hit the library, local book store or magazine store with your child. Let him get into the habit of feeling books around him/her. Also establishing a corner for the child’s books is a good idea to foster a feeling of ownership and pride.
It is important that once children are old enough they read not only books but magazines and journals as well. Subscribing to a magazine that the child enjoys will build an excitement in him/her to read more. Many children are not as enamored by stories as other children may be. Encyclopedias and child magazines are a good option in this case. If your child has a hobby, encourage him to read more about it. Also if the family is engaging in some activity like a holiday then ask your child to read up about this place. And finally, discuss with your children what they have read, share knowledge and encourage them to talk to their friends about what they read.
