NEW YORK, NY. AUGUST 15, 2006 -Children who don't read can be divided into two distinct groups: those who can't and those who simply don't.

Recent surveys indicate that of the four out of five Americans who can read, only one chooses to read for pleasure or for information. So, what can we do to change this trend and ensure we are raising a generation of avid readers?

A study of fourth-graders reveals that young, avid readers read voluntarily at home for an hour or more every day. They value being part of a community of readers, placing a high priority on the social interaction that reading provides at school or at home.

The parents of the children in the study likened reading to a recreational activity and provided their children with varied and plentiful reading materials. They also continued to read to their children as they grew older-indeed, one in four of the parents in the study were still reading aloud to their fourth graders.

Using what we know about avid readers, how can we successfully redirect the energies of children who choose not to read? Sebesta offers these suggestions:

First, show your children why reading is worthwhile. Even at young ages, future avid readers are acutely aware that learning to read is hard work. Share with your children how you value the effort they put into building their reading ability and encourage their appreciation of this new experience. Show them how reading unlocks new emotions and enlightens their imagination. These are concepts that can be grasped by children of any age. Ask the child, "What did you find out? How did that make you feel? What did you wonder?"

Avid readers also appreciate and enjoy the unique voice of their favorite authors. Find related works by the same author and encourage children to compare different works and talk about the connections between them.

Don't overlook the value of nonfiction. Traditionally, fiction has been viewed as "reading for fun," while nonfiction is relegated to the role of fact-finding. The best nonfiction authors write with a voice that speaks directly to the reader, and include illustrations, diagrams, and other graphics to add to the appeal.

Finally, support the creation of a community of readers, so highly valued by those fourth graders who were studied. Invite interaction among friends and family, and encourage young readers to share their enthusiasm by storytelling-relating the key points of a narrative, or taking on the role of a central character to describe their experiences.

By demonstrating the value of reading, and by devoting the same time and energy to it as you would any recreational choice, you can hopefully foster a generation of future adults who once again enjoy the simple pleasure of a good book.

ABOUT DR. SEBESTA:

Dr. Sam Sebesta is a retired Professor, University of Washington, and a Program Author for Pearson Scott Foresman's Elementary Reading program, Reading Street.

NOTE TO EDITORS: Photo available upon request

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