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Here are proven techniques you can use to teach your child that reading is valuable and enjoyable, and that promote reading for all children:

• Set a good example as a reader - let kids see you reading every day.
  
  
• Get a subscription in his or her name to an age-appropriate magazine for your child. When relatives and others ask for gift ideas, suggest magazine subscriptions, books, or a book store gift certificate.
  
  
• Make reading fun - a time that you and your children look forward to spending together.
  
  
• Check out The Read-Aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease (New York: Penguin Books, 1995). It's loaded with fun tips and reading recommendations.
  
  
• Keep lots of books, magazines, and newspapers around the house. Visit the library often and shop for books at garage and yard sales, swap meets, and used bookstores.
  
  
• Don't fret if "Captain Underpants" has captivated your child rather than Robinson Crusoe. The important thing: he's reading! Encourage it and he's likely to move on to more sophisticated titles as he gets older.