apps, games, anything tech to help get a 7yr boy old reading?

[smilesandsun]

Hello,

I know books are the way to go, but I have bought so many and am really struggling to my 7yr old interested in reading. He can read, but only if he needs to or is forced. However he loves the computer, my phone and anything that is technology based. I don't let him on any of these (or even watch tv) except for a reward. I was wondering if I can embrace his technology interest and help him get excited about reading at the same time?

Does anyone have any suggestions? We use reading eggs which he loves, but I would like to find some more alternatives to mix it up.

thx

[IndigoBell]

You have to read loads to play moshi monsters.

Playing games on the computer often requires lots and lots of reading - not just educational games. (And when he gets a bit older he'll write heaps on forums and messages )

I wouldn't limit computer too much.

Even for TV, you can switch subtitles on, then he'll get loads of reading practice.

Also appreciate he probably finds reading hard, so it's not fun yet.

[gordonpym]

Two apps are really good, they alternate reading and short games:

• Grimm's Red Riding Hood
  
• Grimm's Rapunzel
  

Both are free, so worth a try.
Yesterday my son started reading aloud in german (???). He was trying the other languages and he enjoyed that one

[lilystar]

Does he have a Nintendo DS? If he does, try the Pokemon games, there's a lot of reading involved in playing them and my just-turned 8yo DS loves them. They are what initially got him interested in reading. He also has some of the Pokemon story books (Amazon sell them) and the strategy guide for the games, which is a big thick quite involved book, but he loves it.

I'd also second Moshi Monsters, because if he gets into the game, there are 'choose your own adventure' type books and joke books which have spun off from it, so if he likes the game, it makes it easier to introduce the books. Club Penguin is similar, and also has spin off books.

You could also try something like the Lego Ninjago annual, which has loads of games and stuff in, so it's not really like reading (according to my son).

I also have a free app called Lexigon on my ipod which is a bit like the old tv show Blockbusters, which both kids like to play for 5 minutes now and then.

[smilesandsun]

thanks so much for the help. I like the idea of the Pokemon games and Moshi Monsters and also the apps you've mentioned. Also am glad to hear that some others have become interested in reading through games / technology.