How Parents Can Help Children Choose Just The Right Book

السلام عليكم ورحمة الله وبركاته

There is a method called the 'Five Finger' rule that aides children in selecting books that are on their reading level. This rule helps eliminate the frustration a child may feel when they pick up a book with a genuine desire to read it, only to find that it is a). too easy or b). too difficult.

Before your next trip to the library or bookstore, you can teach your child the 'Five Finger' method very easily insha'Allaah by introducing him/her to use these simple steps:

1. Open the book to any page.
2. Start reading.
3. Whenever you come to a word you don’t know, hold up 1 finger.
4. When you finish reading the page, look at your hand and count how many fingers you are holding up.

If you are holding up:

0-1 Fingers the book is too easy

2 -3 Fingers, the book is just right

4-5 Fingers, the book is most likely too hard; choose another

Parents can also find additional tips for helping their child pick developmentally appropriate books here insha'Allaah.