Image from bookweekonline.com

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

This week has been set aside as Children’s Book Week (May 7-13). No matter what stage of life your child is whether they are six months or sixteen, reading is very important to their learning and social skills. A greater emphasis should be put on reading not only this week but everyday of our lives. In children reading enhances their vocabulary, thinking skills, and concentration. It has been shown that children that have been read to before their preschool years have higher aptitude levels , longer attention spans, and better memories.

Many schools and libraries are holding special events for Children’s Book Week or you can check online at http://www.bookweekonline.com/local for events happening in your area.

Here are some fun things you can do at home to encourage a greater love of reading:

• Take turns making up stories with your child
• Play dress up as your favorite story book characters
• Make custom book marks
• Take photos and write stories with them
• Help your child write their own books

Yesterday Taylor and I created our own story book and we had so much fun spending quality time writing and drawing. I’m sure she will remember this when she gets older, I know I will. Happy Reading!