By Jessica Gleason, Bookmobile Librarian, Wailuku Public Library
“The fire of literacy is created by the emotional sparks between a child, a book, and the person reading.” ~ Mem Fox, Reading Magic: Why Reading Aloud to Our Children Will Change Their Lives Forever
Talking, singing, playing and reading out loud are keys to building strong bonds with your child and nurturing a lifelong love of reading and learning. While a child is still in utero, parents can start the bonding and learning process. It’s never too early to start!
Reading out loud and as a family, has numerous benefits. Here are just a few:
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Creates strong bonds
The importance of emotional bonding early on in a child’s life cannot be overemphasized. Reading together is one way to reinforce those bonds. Children love to have the full attention of their parents, and parents need time to slow down and be fully present with their children. All the stresses and worries of the day can be set aside as you enjoy reading together.
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Contributes to the comfort of routine and ritual
Children thrive on routine. Bedtime stories, regular trips to the library, and family reading time (‘screen-free’ time) are all rituals essential to developing memories, habits and traditions that nurture a lifelong reader.
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Lays the foundation for children to read on their own
According to award-winning author and literacy expert Mem Fox, children need to hear 1,000 stories before they can begin learning to read themselves! Fox recommends an “ideal of three stories a day – one favorite, one familiar, and one new.” Though any reading that is fun and engaging for both parent and child will do.
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Fosters empathy and understanding
Reading gives children the ability to see the world through another’s eyes, to safely explore topics and situations that may seem scary or overwhelming, and to be able to articulate their own feelings and those of others.
The main objective when reading together is to have fun! Visit your local public library or the Holoholo Bookmobile for inspiration and encouragement. While there, sign up the whole family for the HSPLS 2017 Summer Reading Program and enjoy free reading incentives and activities. Happy reading!
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