Bust Out A Book & Get Your Kids Reading
Today is “Read Across America Day” and it’s also Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Great time to get your kids to read more! And I know that it isn’t easy. I wasn’t a teacher long, but as a language arts teacher, it was a challenge to get kids to read more. It definitely helps if you can find a book about a subject your child is into.
A few years ago, a friend of mine asked how to get her child to read more. At the time, her son was really into cooking. I recommended a cook book. No, it’s not your typical reading book but it’s a book he could read about something he liked. My suggestion was to find a recipe that they could make together. Her son could read about the dish and read the recipe. At least he’d be reading! And sometimes that’s what it takes to spark an interest in a child: find a book about a subject they really enjoy.
Many students may be stuck at home because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the National Education Association has planned a variety of online events today and throughout the year. I used to tell my students that no matter what they did in life, they needed to know how to read and write proficiently. And if you need help finding a book, this should help.
As a kid, I loved reading. I still enjoy it as an adult but I definitely need to do more of it. I need to turn the television off and get lost in a book. Today is a good reminder for me, and other adults, to read more. Whether it’s a “Sports Illustrated” magazine or a “Harry Potter” book, as long as your kids are reading, they’ll be good to go!
