Introduction

10. Can't parents help?

Yes! They can reinforce what you’re doing, attend events you plan, and Dads especially can model the fun of reading - even if it’s simply through magazines and newspapers. It’s important that any worry about their children doesn’t show through, but with a light touch they can show interest in what they’re reading, and help them realise that everyone’s interested in reading for fun, not just school!

• Are parents given advice on how they can support young people’s reading, or offered sessions on choosing and sharing books with them?
• Try ‘Lads and Dads’ projects - reading groups, reading challenges
• Invite parents to evening events - e.g. visits by sports stars and local celebrities
• Try a ‘Dads into School’ day. Romsey School in Hampshire invited Dads to join in a ‘make your own computer’ project - search the National Year of Reading website’s ‘WikiREADia’, under ‘Romsey’, and look for other ideas while you’re there!
• Use your school website or VLE - have reading lists for parents to use with their children, with reader comments. Love Reading 4 Schools can help you create these, as well as getting money for more books for your school!