Resolutions for Raising a Reader

Elizabeth Kennedy of About.com: Children's Books reminds us how important it is for us as parents to set a good example in order to help our children to become lifelong learners and lovers of literature.

Her resolutions can be found in full detail in her latest posting, but here is a quick outline of what she recommends for ways to get ready for a New Year of reading with our young ones:

1. Read aloud to your children every day.
2. Get a library card.
3. Take your children to the library once a week.
4. Discuss children's books with your children.
5. Take your children to story times, author visits, and other public programs.
6. Buy books that you know will interest your child.
7. Create a comfortable reading space for your child.
8. Visit the websites of favorite authors and illustrators.
9. Once a week, cook together using a children's cookbook.
10. Buy your children a good dictionary and use it regularly.

These are all fabulous ideas and ones that I plan to incorporate in our weekly routine. Spending time reading together is a great way to bond. My son once told me that he liked it when I read to him because I kiss the top of his head.

Today's his birthday. I have two new books to read with him and I can't wait for our trip to the library later this week so he can bring home his own discoveries from the library.

Thanks to Elizabeth for this wonderful reminder.