Engaging the reluctant reader

Sometimes kids don't want to read. It can be because it is hard for them and they struggle with sounding out words, it can be because of a learning disability, or it can be because they don't enjoy reading. As a parent, or a teacher, we need to keep these kids engaged in learning. The best way to do that is to provide interesting stories that will entertain them and hold their attention. As an author, a parent, and a teacher, I have found that amusing stories and adventure stories, are the best way to encourage reading, a story that keeps a child wanting to turn the page, and makes a kid laugh out loud! I have found that intriguing or amusing illustrations will keep kids engaged, too. I haven't met a kid who doesn't like pictures in a book! With all that in mind, I have written the Patches Adventure Books. The stories are silly and funny, and the illustrations show comic situations that keep kids entertained. I have also divided words into syllables so kids won't get stuck on a word and set the book aside. Dividing the words, helps kids manage them and feel like they can move on in the story. And what about all that learning that goes on with reading a book? The child has just learned to read a new word and has begun to understand what it might mean from the context of the story. How can we capture that inkling of revelation and make the most out it? By extending the learning experience. We can do this by talking about the book and encouraging discussion of the story and by keeping the child engaged with the words from the book. To aid with this, I have free printable resources on my web-page that go with each book. Funny comprehension quizzes, crossword puzzles, synonym games, and even coloring pages. I hope you will take advantage of the ACTIVITY PAGES for The Stinkaroo Dog and the Forbidden Portal, Once Upon a Dreamland Christmas, and The Historical TEXAS Trail TRip that can be found on the EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES tab when your kids finish reading the Patches Adventure Books!