Four Reasons Why My Kids Love to Read and Write

Summary

The author shares their success in fostering a love for reading and writing in their children through early exposure to literature, making reading an enjoyable family activity, encouraging writing skills, and supporting participation in literary competitions.

Abstract

The article titled "Four Reasons Why My Kids Love to Read and Write" details the author's journey in cultivating a passion for literature in their children. The author and their spouse began collecting children's books even before the birth of their first child, emphasizing the importance of early exposure to reading materials. They established a daily "story time" ritual, which became a cherished family tradition. The family also frequented libraries and bookshops, turning reading into a form of entertainment and bonding. Beyond reading, the author encouraged creative expression through drawing and writing, which evolved into a regular writing habit for their children. Additionally, the author supported their children's participation in writing competitions, celebrating their efforts and progress, regardless of the outcome. The author's daughter and son, now 13 and 6 respectively, have developed a strong affinity for reading and writing, a testament to the effectiveness of the family's approach to literacy.

Opinions

The author believes in the power of reading and writing from an early age, considering it a gateway to a magical world of thought.
They quote Emilie Buchwald, emphasizing the role of parents in making their children readers.
The author values the role of libraries and bookshops in making reading an enjoyable and anticipated activity for children.
They see writing as a natural progression from drawing and coloring, which helps children express themselves and improve their literacy skills.
The author encourages healthy competition in writing, viewing it as an opportunity for children to communicate their thoughts and celebrate their achievements.
They express satisfaction with the results of their efforts, noting that both children read and write daily and enjoy doing so.
The author hopes their experience will inspire other parents to foster a love for literature in their children's lives.
They cite May Ellen Chase, reinforcing the irreplaceable role of books in a child's development.

We started early

Even before our first child was born, we started collecting our favorite children's titles. From old classics to latest children literature we cherished them all. We introduced colorful baby books with plastic mirrors and fluff materials and picture books for toddlers. We had story time every day before bed. “Tory time” was one of my daughter's first words. We used to imitate character voices which made it fun for the whole family.

“Children are made readers on the laps of their parents.” — Emilie Buchwald

Introduced books as entertainment

From the very start we introduced reading as fun family time. When our kids were toddlers, we took them to libraries, they used to run around in kids’ areas picking their favorite books. Our local library had this story bag with a book and a toy which could be changed every week. Kids were always very thrilled, and they looked forward to their library visits. We also joined parent toddler sessions and playdates in libraries. When they were a little older, we introduced them to book shops for a book once a month or on special occasions.

Strengthened writing skills

We began with establishing coloring and drawing pictures to express ourselves, which later developed into appropriate word formation and writing. After our occasional family trips, we would encourage our kids to draw us pictures of what they enjoyed during the trip.

In years to come it turned into a regular writing habit. Luckily my kids still love to write about their holiday adventures and when we read their prior writings, we get a chance to assess their progress and to relive the delightful memories.

Supported competition and practice

We always encouraged our kids to write their own lines for school assemblies. They loved to take part in poetry and essay competition in school and local kid’s magazines. They recognized writing to express themselves and to communicate their thoughts. If they won a competition, we celebrated it as a family and even if they lost, we encouraged participation.

My daughter is 13 now and my Son is 6. They both read on their own every day and they love to write as well. I am glad the little steps we took as a family brought us to this magical world of learning.

I hope this helps other parents who want to instill the love of literature in their kid's lives.

“There is no substitute for books in the life of a child.” — May Ellen Chase