Teens who can read easily and well can master nearly any subject. Here are ways you can encourage your teen to keep reading.

• Show your teen that reading is fun. If you’re reading something you enjoy, share it.

• Create a comfortable place for reading. A favorite CD, a snack and a comfortable chair can all make reading more fun.

• Read what your teen reads. Pick up a magazine or book your teen is reading. Talk about how it connects to something in your life. Ask your teen to do the same.

• Read school-assigned novels. When your teen has a novel to read for school, ask if you can read it, too. Share your ideas. Did you like or dislike the same things? Why or why not?

• Listen to books on tape. Many books that may be a bit too challenging to read alone can come to life when they are read aloud. If you and your teen spend much time in the car, you can work your way through some great books together.

• Find a magazine that deals with one of your teen’s interests. Give him a subscription for a birthday or holiday gift.

• Remind your teen that he doesn’t have to finish every book he is reading for pleasure. If the book is boring or seems too hard, encourage him to try another.

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