Raise a kid who loves re-re-reading

Prolific author and statistician Nassim Taleb spends 30 hours every week reading books.

Just books.

Not articles, blogs, or newsletters (although we’re pretty sure he’d love Prequel 😉).

That sounds like a lot until you count up all of the hours you spend reading things on the internet. 🤷

And according to Nassim:

So today, I’m going to dive into how to get your kid to love re-re-reading.

It ain’t homework

I know what you’re thinking:

“I have a hard enough time getting my kid to read something once, let alone two or three times!”

I hear ya.

I still can’t make it through Great Expectations, and I somehow passed a test on it back in high school. 🤷

But to raise a voracious reader, it’s important to separate reading from academics.

Otherwise, it’s homework.

Take them to the library and let them pick out anything. Don’t judge their choice or try to align their reading materials with any goals (academic, developmental, or otherwise).

Allow it to be truly pleasurable.

And I hope it goes without saying that when your kid picks up a book they’ve already read, encourage it! Re-reading is the best kind of reading. 👊

Build them a reading nook

While the nook doesn’t have to be as elaborate as these photos (although, let’s be honest, you’re feeling pretty inspired right now), when you give your kids a fun and comfortable reading spot in the house, it will incentivize them to spend more time with their books.

Have them help you with the process, too!

Let them pick colors, themes, and assist with building the nook. 

It can be a great family project with benefits that compound for years to come.

Ritualize reading

When reading is part of your family’s daily routine, your kids won’t even realize they’re doing it.

Here are a few ways to ritualize reading as a family:

• Silence all devices

• Play soft instrumental music throughout the house

• Make sure everyone has their favorite beverage handy

• Provide everyone with their own designated place to read

• Conclude reading time with a sweet snack for everyone

Tying reading time to enjoyable activities makes reading enjoyable by association. And let’s face it — the whole family can benefit from ritualizing reading.

Use books as rewards

🧹 Did your kid complete all of their chores? 

🎒 Bring home a good report card?

🎉 Go an entire week without torturing their sister?

Take them to the bookstore to pick something out. (And again, let them pick out any book they want — no judgment, no pushing from mom and dad!)

Using books as rewards reinforces the idea that books are desirable and exciting.

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Raising a re-re-reader equips your kid with valuable life skills and a curious mind.

Get on it!