The nation's children don't like to read, and their reading scores can reflect this disdain. While they are proficient at haiku length, phonics-based texting and Tweeting, their eyes glaze over when they have to read a book.

In some cities, illiteracy among 4th and 8th graders is as high as 73 percent. This sad state of affairs will never improve until students develop a love for reading. Until they begin to read solely for pleasure.

A virtual army of educators, researchers, parents, and reading specialists have been wrestling with this problem for decades. Worthy literacy programs exist, but for some reason the problem seems more entrenched than ever.

Tips for getting kids to read:

1.  DON'T NAG - no one likes to be constantly told the same thing over and over.  It's a turn off. :(

2. Provide opportunities - take trips to libraries and book stores; encourage book fairs and literary events 

3. ALLOW CHOICE - this may be the most important tip!  It is vital to allow students to choose what they want to read as much as possibly.  

This helps kids associate reading with their own interests and understanding.  You may be surprised at some of the choices made!

4. Sometimes it can take a number of attempts before success.  Allow children to stop a book if it isn't working for them.  Sometimes there need to be a lot of TASTING before you find what you like to eat! (or read!)