When we discuss the importance of reading, we often talk about children—rarely about teenagers. But at their age, reading is essential! Discover a few ways to help your teen develop an interest in books and reading.
The love of reading is contagious—to catch it, you just have to find the right book. To help your teenager develop a love of reading, try suggesting a book that matches their interests. Here are a few examples:
- The biography of their favourite singer
- A book about a country they dream of visiting
- A novel featuring characters that resemble them
- Etc.
For more advice on finding books that suit your teenager’s interests, read our article about book genres.
Like all adolescents, your teenager is influenced by other people’s tastes. Rather than suggesting just any book, do some research on current trends. Here are some things to look for:
- The most popular author among teenagers
- Books you keep hearing about
- Books at the top of the bestseller lists
- Etc.
To help you with your research, use social media or ask a librarian.
The pleasure of getting lost in a good book is contagious. When you share your favourite literary finds with your teenager, you’re also sharing your enthusiasm. It doesn’t matter whether you recommend a book you read as a teen or one you read last week. What counts is the spark ignited by your conversation.
Don’t underestimate the power of physical contact with books. The weight, scent, and cover of a book can all stimulate the desire to read. That’s why it’s a good idea to make regular trips to your local library or neighbourhood bookstore. They’re also the perfect places to discover new authors.
Designate a space in your home just for reading, away from the TV and electronic devices. You can furnish the space with the following items:
- Lamps
- Cushions
- Blankets
- A low table
- Etc.
Teenagers imitate adults, so take the opportunity to lead by example. After dinner or on weekend afternoons, why not dive into a good book? The other members of your family might come join you to share in the enjoyment of escaping into a great story.
Writing :Amélie Cournoyer
Scientific review : Nathalie Paquet-Bélanger, resource teacher
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Rewriting : The Alloprof Parents’ team
LEBRUN, M. et BARIBEAU, C. « Les intérêts en lecture des adolescents québécois : Résultats d’une enquête », Québec français, 2003, pp. 43-47.
MINISTÈRE DE L’ÉDUCATION, DU LOISIR ET DU SPORT. Les profils de lecteurs chez les jeunes du secondaire, Gouvernement du Québec, 2005, 8 p.