1. SHARE THE JOY OF READING
by Kirk Kraft
One of the most enjoyable times in our home is when we sit down and read with our kids. Often
times this is part of our bedtime routine in the evening but also happens throughout the day. Both
my wife and I grew up as avid readers ourselves and have maintained the love of books to this
day. Our kids have all enjoyed listening to us read since they were very young. Naturally, they
have their favorite stories and we read these often. But they have also begun exploring different
stories they discover on the library bookshelves.
The size of our own book collection has grown in the past few years and includes everything
from Seuss to Curious George to Winnie the Pooh. Reading can open up an enormous world of
imagination you can’t find anywhere else. It is here where you can take a trip around the world
in a hot air balloon; imagine you are walking the woods with wild animals; or enjoying making
friends with an entire cast of lovable people and creatures. Television paints the picture for you;
reading lets you paint the picture.
For me, reading is really the birthplace for imagination, especially for young children. Those of
us who have kids know they have bright little minds that can conjure up a make-believe
companion or create a kingdom where they are the king or queen. Reading just helps expand
their minds.
Of course, as they get older and move through their school years, reading is a vital tool in
learning and comprehending different levels of knowledge. If you can get kids interested in
reading at a young age and encourage them to read on their own when they can, you will be
amazed at what happens. The more they see and hear mom or dad read the more interested they
become and with positive feedback on what they read, kids be motivated to read even more.
My oldest daughter is finishing up first grade and has been improving her reading skills all year.
Frankly, there are few things more wonderful to hear than the sound of a young child reading.
The joy of reading begins early and she has no doubt been somewhat motivated by our own love
of books. How can you get your child interested in reading in this over-the-top, information-at-
your-fingertips-instantaneously culture? Just pick up a book and begin reading. Soon, you can
accompany them on their journey that will lead to a lifetime love of reading. Make the effort and
take the time to read at least twenty minutes a day with your children and you will be richly
rewarded.