Blog Posts
Parent Perspective: Lyle & Denise
Reading together provides more one-on-one personal time. In today’s busy lives this time is essential to developing a positive relationship between parent and child.
Document Your Child’s Reading Journey
Part 2
Showing your child that you are committed to recording their books demonstrates the importance you place on the act of reading.
Parent Perspective: Melinda
Bedtime was always a special time at our house. We had two bedrooms separated by a door. There were between six and eight children gathered in there at a time. Their dad would sit between the rooms, reading a chapter book. The kids looked forward to each night’s...
Documenting Your Child’s Reading Journey
Part 1
I strongly encourage you to keep a record of your child’s reading, in whichever format you choose. This week I am excited to share why taking video and/or using a reading app can elevate your child’s reading experiences.
Parent Perspective: Tina
The Joy of ReadingI have always loved to read, but my children were struggling. Crying, fighting and refusing to read and do the assignments . . . for years. So, we stopped and reassessed. We chose something else and took a completely different approach to youth...
Sailing With Reading
Our home is on a peninsula near Seattle, Washington, so we are surrounded by water. I am blessed to see all kinds of vessels on and around the bay during my drive to town. This got me thinking about how our reading experiences can be similar to boats in their varying conditions.
Parent Perspective: Kelly
His fingers were white, clenched tightly around the blankets he was pulling higher and higher towards his body, his eyes wide with terror. I was in the middle of what I imagined was a very good basilisk voice impression, when I paused for dramatic effect.
Celebrate Reading
Finding Joy in the Journey
When your child does sound out a word successfully, get through a session of reading, finish a book, or even pick up a book on their own, you should celebrate! Make a big deal out of this seemingly small accomplishment. Help them feel like it was worth the effort.
Parent Perspective: Sari
I have always said one of my favorite parts about my day is reading to my children. There’s something so calming about it that makes us all look forward to it. Plus, I love the snuggles and conversations we have about the stories we read together.
Welcome Letter
From an educational standpoint, reading with your children regularly may be the single most important activity you do with them. An added benefit is the emotional connection you will develop with your kids as you work together.
Fanning Their Flames
How to Encourage Your Child's Desire to Read
Imagine you are camping with your family on the beach. You were given fire duty. You’ve collected small sticks and dried moss, which you lit with a few sparks. Do you sit back now and hope it takes off all on its own? No! You blow on it and supply more fuel. You feed that baby whatever it needs!