I came across this post by an unknown author about reading to your children. As you may know, my blog centers on improving the lives of children, primarily through literacy. It should be no surprise that I would continue to inspire adults to read more to and with children. As we begin a new year, I encourage you to add that as a New Year’s resolution as it keeps reading on your most important things “to do” list each day.
As the unknown author writes, it only can take 20 minutes a day. That is 20 minutes out of 1,440 minutes that we have each and every day. Surely you can squeeze in the time! But, if there is one day that you just have 10 minutes, still do it. Don’t put reading off to a time in the future when you believe you will have “enough time” because often, that time does not happen. Make procrastinating a thing of the past and just do it!
What about where and when to read? The author again gives you some suggestions. Think about all the things that you do each day that require some sort of waiting time, and then add reading. While you do laundry … while dinner cooks – these are just a few of those times. Moreover, read during any time of the day – especially on weekends and holidays. Search for opportunities to read.
I love it when the author suggests to “Hide the remote; let the computer games cool.” We all know that these electronic devices steal reading time away from us. So, in other words, don’t even turn on the television. If you have it on, turn it off and then don’t let anyone else turn it on while reading is going on. With computer games, you may have to pull your children away from them, but pull, pull, pull! Those games won’t go anywhere and when you give the approval for your children to return to them, they will still be there.
While reading, have your children snuggle close to you. This is a wonderful time to bond and love on them. They hear your voice. They feel your warm touch. They know that they are truly loved! And, as the author says “Hey, don’t quit.” Tomorrow is another day to read, and read, and read some more.
