Thematic approaches to reader development for younger clients
Thematic approaches is the term used to refer to reading suggestions linked or grouped in some way by subject. An example might be "Scary Books" or "Tall Tales".
Thematic lists can be helpful when working with younger clients. They are used to being asked about their interests and hobbies. It should be straightforward to find an enthusiasm for animals or football, ghosts or space. This gives you a chance to draw a reluctant reader into more satisfying reading experiences. You need to remember to gauge the level of ability carefully so that you don't offer material which is too easy or too difficult. Often an interest in the subject matter will encourage a child to take a more difficult book and encourage them to ask for help from an adult if they get stuck. You may have readers who stick to particular authors or themes and need a bit of encouragement to try something new. Letting a reader get stuck in a reading rut is not to their or your long-term benefit.
Let's look at some Online sources of thematic lists ...
