This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Teens Who Don’t Like to Read- What to do! This post is running concurrently on the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast Network.
Teens Who Don’t Like to Read– What to do!
Many parents can relate to having a teen who doesn’t love reading, but let’s get one thing out of the way from the state – this is not a character flaw, but rather a part of their individuality. If you’re homeschooling teens who don’t like to read, you can embrace this in a whole new way instead of trying to force it. Let’s explore how we can support and encourage our non-reading teens on their educational journey.
Recognizing Individuality
We often feel pressure as homeschoolers to raise book-loving kids, but that’s not always the case. It’s essential to recognize that there is room for all types of learners in the homeschool universe, including teens who don’t love reading!
Just as there are kids who love everything about school, there are also those who don’t find joy in reading. And that’s okay!
It doesn’t mean they are flawed or lazy; it simply means they have different strengths and interests.
Shifting the Perspective
Instead of viewing a teen’s lack of love for reading as a character flaw or a sign of laziness, let’s consider it as an opportunity to explore alternative ways of learning.
We need to redefine what success with reading means. We often fall into the trap of measuring success by the number of books our teens read. But teens’ reading shouldn’t be the measurement of success; success should be evaluated based on a broader perspective.
It’s not about the number of books read, but rather the ability to comprehend and apply what they read. The goal is to ensure they can comprehend and apply the information they encounter, even if it’s not through traditional reading.
- Can they read and comprehend information, even if it takes them longer than others?
- Can they apply what they’ve learned in practical ways?
- Are they able to think critically and ask questions?
By shifting our focus from the quantity of reading to the quality of learning, we can alleviate the pressure on our non-reading teens and homeschool moms.
Seeking Feedback and Support
We sometimes need an outside perspective to help us navigate challenges. Consider seeking input from trusted friends, youth group leaders, or co-op teachers who can offer insights into your teen’s strengths and potential.
Seek input from trusted friends or mentors who can provide a fresh perspective on your teen’s unique qualities.
Remember, God has a plan for each young person, and it may not align with our expectations.
Sometimes, others can see the growth and progress that we may overlook. This feedback can be invaluable in helping your teen gain confidence and recognize their unique abilities.
Embracing Lifelong Learning
If your teen doesn’t enjoy reading, don’t despair. Education is not solely confined to reading books. Today, there are countless resources available, such as audiobooks, read-alouds, discussion groups, and even movies, that can help engage non-reading teens.
So if your teen prefers learning through the internet or watching educational videos, that’s okay! Encourage your teen to explore these alternative methods of acquiring knowledge. Whether it’s watching informative videos, engaging in online research, or pursuing hands-on activities, emphasize that learning can take many forms.
Focus on their individual growth and the areas of their strengths or skills, and help them develop those further.
By broadening the definition of success, we empower our teens to embrace their individual learning styles and interests.
You’re doing a great job as a homeschool parent, and your child’s worth is not determined by their love for reading.
Overcoming Comparison and Self-Doubt
In the homeschooling community, it’s easy to fall into the comparison trap. We hear stories of other teens devouring classic novels and feel as though our own children are falling short.
It’s crucial to remember that each child has their own unique path.
Comparing our teens to others only leads to self-doubt and unnecessary pressure. Instead, focus on your teen’s growth, progress, and individual strengths. Celebrate their accomplishments, regardless of how they align with societal expectations.
Homeschooling Teens Who Don’t Love Reading
So take a deep breath and embrace the journey. Homeschooling is about nurturing your child’s individuality and helping them become the best version of themselves. If you have a teen who doesn’t love reading, remember that it’s not a character flaw or a reflection of your parenting.
By shifting our perspective and embracing lifelong learning, we empower our teens to thrive and succeed in their own way.
Here are some posts that might help, also:
- Teaching Teens to Read Textbooks (because they probably cannot avoid all textbooks)
- Homeschool Case Study: Teen Who Hates Reading
- Teenager Bored with Reading
- Help for When Reading and Writing are Wrecking Your Day
We’re here to support you every step of the way. Check out 7SistersHomeschool for free resources, literature study guides, and career exploration tools. We’ve created these resources based on our own experiences and the success we’ve seen in our own homeschools and co-ops.
Thank you to Richie Soares with Homeschool and Humor for writing this blog post and to Seth Tillman for editing the podcast.
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO HSHSP VIA COMPUTER
- Follow this link to our iTunes page.
- IMPORTANT STEP: Under our Homeschool Highschool Podcast logo, click on View in iTunes
- This will take you to iTunes and our own podcast page.
- Click SUBSCRIBE.
- Click RATINGS AND REVIEW. (Please take a minute and do this. It helps others find us. Thanks!)
- Thanks!
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE VIA iPHONE
- Tap the purple Podcast icon on your phone
- Tap the search icon on the bottom-right of your screen
- In the search bar type: Homeschool Highschool Podcast
- Tap the Homeschool Highschool Podcast icon
- Tap *Subscribe*
- Please tap *Ratings and Review* and give us some stars and a comment to help others find us more easily.
- Thanks!
7Sisters email subscribers receive periodic practical encouragement, special offers and NO SPAM EVER.
Click the image above to periodically receive real homeschool value in your inbox.
