Choices, choices, choices

Research has shown that choice is one of the most important factors when it comes to children and books. Allowing children to choose what they read, strengthens their motivation to read. This freedom allows children to make choices based on their own personal interests and identity and gives them a sense of autonomy. By continuing to make their own choices, children can shape and develop their own reading identity, which will likely make them self-motivated on their future reading journey. There are many factors that influence children’s reading choices. Research has shown that most children (56%) chose simply by browsing the shelves. 32% then said they would choose a book by the same author/​writer, and 21% went by friends’ suggestions.

While it can be difficult to accommodate every child’s reading preferences, here are some ways to encourage children’s reading choices:

• Encourage students to make their own reading choices. This may seem obvious but just giving students the opportunity to look through the library shelves, and make their own decisions without judgment, can be a hugely beneficial in developing children as readers.
• Enable students to have a voice in what reading materials are available in the library. Students are the ones that are using and reading books in the school library, so it makes sense that they have some input into what is lining the library shelves. Take their book suggestions seriously. Children will feel valued if what they want to read can be found in the library. It also allows them to tell their friends about books they have read and encourage them to read them too!
• Introduce the idea of genre to students. Many adults have preferences in their choice of books and films. For children, discovering what genres they are interested in, can assist with their future book selection and get them excited to seek out new books in these genres.  
• Link students with reading materials that align with the interests. The best way help students make reading choices is to talk with them. Learn about their interests. What have they enjoyed reading previously? What TV shows do they enjoy? Do they have any other hobbies?  There are so many books available to children now that there is bound to be one that they will enjoy.
• Develop your own book knowledge. Not all schools are able to employ a librarian. One of the benefits of having a professional librarian in a school, is the knowledge of children’s books that they possess. If you haven’t read any children’s fiction since you were in school, it might be a good idea to check out what is available to students now. This will allow you to make more modern and authentic suggestions to children.