As educators, our language plays a crucial role in shaping the mindset and attitudes of young learners. One simple yet powerful shift we can make is to refer to all young people as “readers”. This subtle change can have a profound impact on their relationship with reading and their overall academic and emotional development.
Fostering a Growth Mindset: By labelling every child as a “reader”, we emphasise that reading is a skill that can be developed over time. This instills a growth mindset, where challenges are viewed as opportunities for growth and learning. When students see themselves as capable readers, they are more likely to persevere through difficulties and embrace a love for learning.
Sparking Intrinsic Motivation: Calling young people “readers” imbues them with a sense of power and confidence in their ability to engage with texts. This fosters intrinsic motivation, as they see reading not just as a task but as an integral part of their identity. When students feel empowered to explore the world of literature on their own terms, they are more likely to seek out reading materials that interest and inspire them.
Building Confidence: For struggling readers, the label “reader” serves as a gentle reminder of their potential and existing abilities. It reaffirms that they have the capacity to unlock the wonders of reading, even if they are still developing their skills. By acknowledging and celebrating their efforts, we help build their confidence and self-esteem as readers.
Creating a culture of reading engagement in the classroom and beyond requires intentional efforts. Here are some practical tips:
- Focus on the Joy of Reading: Share your enthusiasm for reading by discussing your favourite stories, topics, and things you’ve learned. Encourage students to share their own reading experiences and recommendations with their peers.
- Make Reading a Shared Experience: Foster a sense of community by incorporating shared reading activities into your classroom routine. Whether it’s reading aloud during story time or hosting reading clubs, create opportunities for students to connect with each other through literature.
- Celebrate All Kinds of Readers: Embrace diversity in reading preferences by celebrating a wide range of genres and formats. From graphic novels to cookbooks, honour and respect each student’s unique reading interests and choices.
- Offer Choices and Variety: Provide students with access to a diverse selection of reading materials, both in the classroom and in the school library. Encourage independent exploration and self-directed learning by allowing students to choose reading materials that pique their curiosity and ignite their imagination.
By calling all young people “readers”, we affirm their potential and empower them to embark on a lifelong journey of discovery and learning through reading.
