Suparna Chatarjee

 Most children do not read these days. It is accepted the world over that the habit of reading is dwindling. It is at an all time low. Hence, it is an uphill task for teachers to get across to them holistically because their lack of general awareness is worrying. In such a scenario, how does one motivate them to read books?

The problem arises when we try to impose our views upon them, when they do not want to read. I think they should be given the freedom to read in order to initiate them into it. Taking human nature into consideration, perhaps we could tell them not to read. Then, for sure, they will. They are known to do the opposite of what adults tell them. Jokes apart, we should keep a track of what interests them so that we can guide them accordingly.

How can we achieve desirable results? I had tried to follow something called DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) in my class, which yielded some results. Children were given the choice to read whatever they wanted. Occasionally I told them the meaning of DEAR: they should stop doing anything and everything that they are doing and read the book that fascinates them. Children enjoyed the luxury of choice. They loved the concept of DEAR. No one, least of all children, like adults to breathe down their neck. Sometimes they tell us: let us be.

Slowly but steadily they started reading. By and by they were led to reading some other books too. They often came to me for consultations whether a particular book was good and worth reading. They also recommended some books to me. That was heartening! I was forced to read them to tell them I also do what I preach. After all, example is better than precept.