How to Use TV, DVDs and Movies to Promote Reading

If you can't seem to get your children interested in reading a children's book or listening to stories, but your children do enjoy watching TV shows and movies, you might try these techniques to get them enthused about children's books and reading.

Difficulty: Average

Time Required: 2-4 hours, depending on length of show and book

Here's How:

Check at the library for movies or download movies based on children's books.

If your child enjoys the movie, introduce him to the book.
Read the book together, comparing and contrasting the book and the movie.
If your child seems intrigued by a particular character or animal (like the elephants in The Jungle Book movie), take her to the library and look for children's books about related subjects.
Reinforce a favorite children's book with a video. For example, both the book There's a Nightmare in My Closet and the video are excellent.
Take your children to see (or show them) children's movies that are based on children's books. Follow-up with the book. An example is the book Because of Winn-Dixie (see my review) by Kate DiCamillo. The movie version of Because of Winn-Dixie () is available at many libraries and online bookstores.
You can also use book versions of children's movies, like the movie Brave to interest your children. For example, use Brave (Big Golden Book) () for children up to age 8 and Brave: The Junior Novelization () for ages 8-12.
Check online for book/movie-related activities. For an example, see Brave - Movie Related Crafts, Activities and More. Use these activities to encourage your child to read to learn more.

Watch your child's television viewing habits to get ideas of his special interests (like sports, adventure, science) and find books related to them.
Check your public television station for movies/shows based on children's books. There are some excellent ones, like Anne of Green Gables. (). You might also check your public library or bookstores with DVD sections.
If your older child is a reluctant reader but an enthusiastic fan, get him books about the popular young singers and actors he likes.
See if there are children's books related to your child's favorite TV shows. For example, for younger children, you can find Blue's Clues, Barney, and Sesame Street books.

Tips:

It's a good idea to preview the videos/DVDs and read reviews of the movies before your child sees them.
Ask other parents for suggestions of good TV shows, movies and books.
Public libraries tend to have excellent selections of DVDs/videos of movies and TV shows based on children's literature.

What You Need: