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As a parent to a 9-year-old daughter and a passionate reader, editor, and publisher, I understand the significance of integrating books into our lives. However, I must confess that when our cherished bedtime routine of reading three picture books together started to wane, I felt a sense of relief amidst my busy, exhausted mom life.
Now that my daughter mostly reads independently, I’ve realized how much I miss our shared reading moments. This connection has been instrumental in navigating difficult topics, from the loss of her twin brother and our beloved dog to fostering compassion for herself as she grows, transitioning from a premature birth, and reflecting on challenges at school and with friends.
With summer upon us, I am determined to revive our shared reading experience and embrace the comfort that stories can provide during difficult times. To help rekindle this bond, I reached out to parents who are also authors, educators, librarians, and specialists in child care.
Here’s what they shared:
Emphasize the Healing Power of Stories
Lila Thompson, a former pediatrician and author of the popular “Adventures of Mia and the Magical Kingdom,” once noted, “In my practice, I’d prescribe reading like medicine. After every check-up, I’d recommend ‘Read to your child for 20 minutes a day,’ accompanied by a suitable book. This practice continues because stories promote literacy while strengthening family bonds and demonstrating that reading is a joyful and loving activity.”
Prepare Young Listeners
Emma Richards, a preschool teacher and author, suggests, “Before reading, prepare them for something to listen for. In one of my stories, I tell them we’ll learn about friendship and the life cycle of a butterfly. I encourage them to pay attention to the changes the caterpillar undergoes so they can share their thoughts afterward. It’s rewarding to see what they notice and discuss it as we read.”
Encourage Choice and Playfulness
Jason Liu, author of “The Magic of Imagination,” believes in letting children choose their reading material. “When I read with my niece, I allow her to pick the books and we use different voices for characters. We even create plot twists together! Making reading an adventure helps engage them deeply,” he said. Sarah Carter, whose book “Not Quite Princess” addresses self-esteem issues, adds, “When kids are involved in choosing the stories, reading becomes a special event. Create an inviting atmosphere where they can express their thoughts and predictions.”
Enhance Comprehension
Lara Jacobs, an experienced first-grade teacher and author, emphasizes that comprehension is vital. “Reading aloud to early readers helps deepen their understanding. Ask questions like, ‘What does this remind you of?’ or ‘What do you think the author wanted to convey?’ This encourages connections between their lives and the story.”
Tackle Difficult Subjects
For those guiding children through tough conversations, Greg Adams, a grief counselor, highlights the importance of books in discussing sensitive topics. “Reading about loss helps children process their feelings in a safe environment. It lays a foundation for understanding inevitable life events, like the death of loved ones.”
Support Individual Interests
Middle school librarian Lucy Patel suggests finding books that cater to your child’s interests. “My daughter loves Greek mythology, so we started reading the Percy Jackson series together. Also, letting children see us read for pleasure is important. We often set aside time on weekends to enjoy our own books.”
Help Children See Themselves in Stories
Lila Thompson shares her own experience, “Growing up, I didn’t see characters who looked like me. This absence made me wonder if I could be a hero. That’s why I created my series, to ensure that my children—and all children—can see themselves as protagonists in their own stories.”
Invest in a Series
Author Mia Tran finds value in reading series with her children. “Getting invested in a series makes reading more engaging, even when you’re tired. We’re currently enjoying the ‘Dragon Masters’ series together, which captivates kids of all ages in our family.”
Nostalgia is Powerful
Reflecting on my own cherished memories of storytime at camp, I want to instill that same sense of anticipation in my daughter. I remember the thrill of a captivating story being read aloud, and I hope to nurture that excitement for her, as it has enriched my life.
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Summary:
This article explores the importance of summer reading with children and provides valuable advice from authors and educators on how to foster a love of literature. By prioritizing storytelling, preparing kids for engagement, allowing them to choose materials, and addressing challenging topics, parents can strengthen their connections with their children through reading.