GOMBAK: Ensure your child reads for at least an hour a day before they are allowed to access electronic devices, says a teacher.
This is the simple but firm rule practised by Nurfateena Dinnina Jaafar, 35, in raising her four children to make reading a daily routine.
For Nurfateena, the rule is not merely a condition but part of a conscious effort to instil discipline and nurture a genuine love for books among her children – Muhammad Rafyqie, 12, Nia Ryhanna, nine, Mukhlis Rafael, six, and Naurah Reiyssa, three.
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She said she would often spend time reading with them before allowing them to use mobile phones or tablets, especially during weekends and school holidays.
“If they want to access their electronic devices, they need to read for at least an hour a day.
“Although it can be quite challenging, especially with the older children who are sometimes harder to manage, they need to set a good example for their younger siblings,” she said when met at her home in Selayang yesterday.
“Each child needs a different approach according to their own ability. We cannot apply the same method to everyone because their level of proficiency varies.”
To prevent her children from getting bored, she allocates part of the family budget to buy new books every month so that they will look forward to fresh reading materials.
She also prefers that her kids read physical books instead of reading online, as it allowed her better control of the topics.
Her eldest son, Muhammad Rafyqie said reading books was more fulfilling than playing video games or scrolling social media content.
“When I read, I feel like I am part of the story. That feeling is very exciting and makes me want to keep reading.”
He added that while both books and video games had their own advantages, reading leaves a lasting impression as readers could often relate to the storyline.
For Universiti Selangor student Muhammad Wafiy Dzulkifli, 23, reading is an important activity in his daily life, which is often done with his coursemates in informal spaces around campus.
“The library is quite far from the hostel, so sometimes we gather at any corner or even on the stairs.
“The most enjoyable part is when we exchange views about our favourite books at fast food restaurants or while waiting for the bus.
“Among the books we enjoy are those with dakwah and tarbiah themes, as well as stories about warriors,” said the final-year Bachelor of Education in Islamic Studies student.
Muhammad Fateh Rizqi Mohd Hasriq, 11, a pupil of SK Serendah said he was inspired by his father to take an interest in reading.
“I asked my father what he did in his free time when he was my age. Did he feel bored without the availability of electronic devices during his younger days? He told me he used to read books a lot, so I decided to do the same.
“My father also said I need to read more to keep up with current affairs. That is why I have become more diligent in reading,” said Muhammad Fateh.
