We love getting feedback and questions from you, our readers. One of the hottest topics in our inbox and on our social media channels is about bedtime reading routines. Not surprising, as it’s one of those staples from childhood that has stood the test of time, from generation to generation. I imagine (perhaps naively) families gathered around candlelight reading aloud together from treasured books centuries ago, and I know many parents still make reading together at night before bed a daily priority, even in the era of screens.
Tag: bedtime
Parents as Reading Role Models: How to Find the Time
One of the greatest things parents can do to influence their children as they grow up is to model the very behaviors and values they hope to instill in their children. Reading is one of the best examples of this: every study shows that children who see their parents reading and writing are more likely to engage in those activities as well. So we’re kicking off a series of posts about how parents can be the best reading rode models for their children.
8 Tips to Encourage a Love of Reading in Every Child
When my first born was ready for baby food, I had a mini meltdown. I felt like I had (finally!) figured out feeding him and now my pediatrician was telling me it was already time for solids. The doctor had one simple answer, “Just keep trying.” He said that if my son didn’t show interest in a certain food that I should continue placing it on his tray. Eventually, his tastes may change or he might grow used to the textures and flavors that come with experiencing new foods.
This works for developing a real love of reading in your children, too. But you know what usually doesn’t work? Shoving it down their throats. Forcing children to eat copious amounts of broccoli when they hate it will make them less likely to enjoy broccoli when they grow up, right?
Making your child read only books you select, during the time of day you select, with a timer set will also make them less likely to fall in love with reading.
The Gift of Imperfection
Our first post! Welcome to Raising Real Readers. Check out our About page to learn more about what we hope to accomplish with this website. This post is written by Renee, our reading expert and educator extraordinaire, but she has her busy parent hat on in this one, and I think every parent can relate to what she shares (I know I can!) Reading this, I was reminded of how books ground us, bring us closer to others, and teach us valuable life lessons. Enjoy. -Nicole (Renee’s sister)