Are you a reader? Do you find it difficult to choose the right book for your child? Indeed, the skill of choosing a suitable book requires experience. Just as Goldilocks did not find the perfect chair until she tried all the other chairs, it takes some trial and error to find the right book for you. But how does a child develop such experience before they can read independently? This is a job for the adults around them. 
Children cannot always rely on adults to choose books for them. Encouraging them to choose books on their own can help to develop not only an interest in reading, but also their ability to make decisions independently.
When children begin to show their desire to choose books themselves, we can get them involved in it. Even if they are literally judging a book by its cover, this represents an important step in their development. Children who have not yet learned how to read may simply respond to the colours or illustrations on the cover. This will nevertheless compel them to open the book and try to find clues and guess plots. These behaviours show that they are able to reach an age-appropriate reading level.
When pupils take lessons in the library, our teachers have the opportunity to introduce them to a variety of books that serve our purposes. This provides a preliminary reference point in how to choose a book. Parents, however, are encouraged to take an active role in encouraging reading. Below are some useful tips on how you can help your child choose what to read outside the classroom.
Learning how to choose a book is a skill almost as important as reading itself. Mastering it builds confidence and will make a lifelong reader out of your child. But, it is a gradual process. In order to ensure success, children need the adults around them to be present, patient and supportive.
