Reading Options for Teenagers

Middle school and high school can be discouraging times for children. School is becoming more difficult and social pressures and other changes can confusing. Many students don't know how to cope with the changes in their life. Teenagers can turn to books, magazines, and other reading material to make this time in their life more manageable and entertaining. Unfortunately, the books introduced to students in the classroom may not stimulate them the way outside reading material can. Prepared parents can present interesting and helpful books and other reading materials to their children.

Strong Characters

Preteens and teens dream of independence from their parents. The best fictional books for this age range feature teens who are independent and successful. The main characters of these books are presented with challenging situations and are able to find solutions with little to no help from adults. It can be empowering for a child to read about because it promotes courage and confidence in their own actions.

Action and Adventure

Readers of this age tend to become disinterested in a book if it doesn't catch their attention right from the start. This does not mean your child's books have to be full of violence. Rather, a child may be yearning for more in the plot than character introspection. Thumb through a book before giving it to your child to see how long it takes to get into the action.

Social Issues

This is the age when students start to expand their views on world issues. Books that introduce these issues help teens to create their own opinion on these topics. Challenging a teen to consider religion, politics, and other important issues like sexuality, will prepare them for college and adult life.

Alternative Reading Materials

It is also important to remember that there are quality reading materials which are not in the form of a book or story. This includes newspapers and magazines. Your child will gain a lot of knowledge and advice from these forms of reading material. Newspapers and magazines can help your child stay up-to-date with world news. Editorials introduce your child to new opinions and ideas on today's tough issues. Magazines are widely enjoyed by teens because they have short articles that get to the point quickly and can hold their attention.

Ask your children about any other preferences they have when it comes to reading. This will bring you closer together and encourage them to take ownership of their reading and other educational actions.