Reading Role Models - Inviting Guest Readers and Authors

Encouraging your child’s love for reading by arranging virtual, recorded or in-person story sessions with authors, community members, or older siblings is not as unusual as you might think.

Listening as others share their favourite books can spark your reluctant reader’s interest and provide a fun, interactive way of exploring stories. Removing the pressures of reading while still feeding their imaginations and literacy skills.

The many benefits include:

• Increased Motivation to Read: Listening to others can motivate children to read more and explore new books.

• Enhanced Understanding: Guest readers and authors can provide insights into books and the writing process, deepening your reluctant reader’s comprehension.

• Building Relationships: Connecting and interacting with role models can make reading a more personal and engaging experience.

• Broadened Interests: By varying authors and readers children discover new genres and interests.

• Positive Role Models: Meeting inspiring figures in the literary world can positively influence children’s attitudes toward reading and writing.

Kids Carousel

Inviting guest readers into your child’s reading routine can add excitement and fresh perspectives. Whether it’s a local author, community member, or even a family friend, having different voices share stories can inspire a love for reading and open reluctant readers up to new worlds.

Reach Out to Local Authors or Illustrators: Reach out to local children’s authors or illustrators to invite them for a virtual reading or a recorded session where they share a book and discuss their creative process.

Some may charge for their time, so it’s best to organize as a group, or ask your school to hold an author event, as they often have funding for such activities. As a children’s author, I’ve hosted many local events, and you’ll find authors are usually keen to participate.

Invite Community Members or Librarians: Ask local librarians, teachers, or community leaders to participate as guest readers. Their enthusiasm for books can inspire children, encouraging them into our libraries and opening them up to whole new worlds.

Family and Friends Story Time: Encourage older siblings, grandparents, or family friends to record themselves reading their favourite childhood books. This personal connection can make the reading experience more meaningful for your child. Their familiar soothing tones can also make this a perfect bedtime activity.

Schools and Libraries: Speak to your child’s school or local library about guest reading sessions. Many will already have author events or reading programs lined up and you can use these to bolster your own reading schedules.

Join Online Author Events or Webinars: Sign up for online author talks or webinars, where authors often read from their books and engage in Q&A sessions. Recordings can be shared with your child to bring in new perspectives and exciting reads.

Call to Action

Planning reading sessions with guest readers can take time. It’s about putting your feelers out and researching authors, librarians and public figures who are local to you.

I live in a rural location, but I often travel around the country for events. So, remember, some authors may be happy to travel further than you expect. Their passion for books and encouraging reading and writing in our younger generations often plays a significant role in their author business. If they’re too far away, then many authors will do a virtual reading or event.

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