Want your child to be an eager reader? Start by making your home more reader-friendly!

Stick to exciting subjects. Find books that focus on your kids' interests. If your son loves exploring the backyard — try a nature book. Maybe your daughter loves to ride her bike — how does a book about a bike race sound?? A librarian can help you scout out the most stimulating books for your child.

Mix it up. If you have a baby, collect board books or books with mirrors and different textures. As your child gets older, add in different kinds of books, including: fiction; poetry; and even dictionaries and encyclopedias. And you don't have to worry about breaking the bank — libraries, used bookstores, and even books you trade with friends can keep your home library fresh.

Keep in mind that kids can understand stories they might not be able to read on their own. If your child chooses a book that’s too challenging now, go ahead and read it together.

There’s much more than books to read out there. Your child might enjoy magazines, audio books, or even the newspaper. Household items like postcards and photo albums can also provide reading opportunities.

Keep books handy for babies and toddlers. Try mixing sturdy books in with toys that are within easy reach of your tot. Placing plastic books near the changing table, highchair, and bath tub can offer great distractions for little kids' curious hands when you're trying to finish meals or wash up. And keeping books around comfy corners of the house makes it easy to cuddle up after feedings and naps.

Create a cozy reading corner. In your child’s favorite hangout in the house, keep reading materials in baskets or on shelves your child can reach. Organize and decorate the area — add books and magazines related to the season, your child’s hobbies, or even what your child’s favorite subjects in school.

Schedule special "reading corner" time each day. You might get it started by offering to read a book aloud, or asking your child to read to you. Sit nearby so you can read too! Limit your child’s time watching TV, playing video games, or using the computer. This will make more time for reading!

Create home-grown reading. Encourage your child to make books, posters, or collages with his or her own pictures and writings. Kids love to read their own work, especially to siblings.

From the health and parenting
experts at KidsHealth.org.