Once we knew the date our three kids were coming home, my oldest sister threw us a “baby” shower. The support was staggering. In just a few days, we were completely outfitted for an entire family. Bunk beds, a cradle, quilts, toys, clothing, shoes, diapers, bottles, and more poured into our house and our hearts. For weeks, items continued to trickle in from friends and our church community. We were awash with gratitude for all we had received. 

Along with the handcrafted gifts, can you guess what we treasured the most? A whole library of children’s books! They came from so many great families. We cherished those books because the new ones had been lovingly selected and the used ones had been loved on by our friends’ precious children. 

I knew I wanted to remember the source of each of the books. So I decided to write a to/from tag inside the cover of each one. I used what I had at the time, which was nothing more than blank address labels and a sharpie, unaware that such a simple thing could become so precious. In addition, I didn’t know that “mom brain” was such a painful reality! I’m grateful I was inspired to keep a record. 

As it turns out, I wasn’t the first person to think of this. Bookplates, or ex libris (Latin for “from the books of . . .”), were used clear back in the 15th century! Here is a fascinating brief history for those who dig this kind of stuff like I do. 

With five kids in various stages, we have continually returned to those first board books, picture books, and chapter books. My husband and I have felt a special connection with those families every time we’ve read the storybooks they gifted us. And the first thing our kids do when they open one from our home library is check the label. Hopefully, they also feel immersed in the care and acceptance showered on us when they glance at those tags.

The cradle, clothing, and diapers were used daily until they were no longer needed. Then we found them different homes (in some cases the trash). But we still have our dear library. The bestowal of books, of stories, of words is incredibly meaningful to me. It is the offering of communication and learning, the opportunity for cuddles and closeness, the promise of time spent together imagining, adventuring, feeling. So if you are fortunate enough to receive a book as a gift, I hope you will consider marking the inside cover with both your name and your friend’s. You will forever be reminded of their loving kindness. 

You can find all sorts of book labels to order in the form of stickers, stamps, or embossers. There’s no need to go all out; some simply use the address labels they have on hand. But if you’re looking for a bit of shopping therapy, a special gift for a friend, or if you’d like to attach tags to your own library of books, here are some links to peruse. Personally, I would recommend the labels. I selected those that were designed for children and had space to write who gifted the book, but you can find exactly what you want by doing a little extra digging. The stamps and embossers are merely for identifying the name of the owner. But that ensures they always get returned to you after they are loaned to a friend!

Labels

Ink Stamps

Embossers

What book do you treasure because of the person who gifted it to you? My answer is in the comments!

Happy book labeling!

Recently, I overheard one of our kids tell a friend that we were going to pick up some books at the library. There was an audible guffaw.

“The library? Who reads books anymore? That sounds so boring!”

The reply? “You’re talking to the wrong family.”

And my heart could have ballooned me clear up in the clouds. For one of my teenagers—who has struggled with a sense of belonging—to equate themself and reading to our family was a balm to us both.

You see, when my husband and I were unable to make any babies after being married for seven years, we figured we’d better find them some other way. Our plan was to adopt an infant to raise as our own. But when we were presented with the opportunity to adopt a sibling group of three young foster children, my inexperienced mother’s heart leapt at the chance. This was an answer to untold prayers, the filling of such a terrible longing.

The very first time we met our kids at the DCFS office, we played together, I fed them snacks, and my husband read them a book we had brought. Those three activities (playing, eating, and reading) seem to have stuck with us. They are a part of every morning, evening, and outing. Some of our kids can’t imagine getting in the car without a book in hand.

After raising our children for 10 years now and making mistake after mistake, I have to remind myself that their situation would (most likely) be worse had we not adopted them. They are wonderful, strong-willed, talented, creative, funny kids, each with their own struggles. In addition, one was born drug affected and consequently has had difficulty in nearly every developmental aspect.

“Through stor[ies] we seek to know ourselves and we seek to be known. Thus we become joined with others.”¹

As parents, we have checked all the boxes: reading various books, researching websites, seeing psychologists and numerous therapists (for them and us), and joining support groups. Unfortunately, none of it has resulted in an exemplary home life. We just keep trying our best every day. Same as you.

We did end up also making two babies, which was another miracle! We are truly blessed with our houseful of kids. They all come with challenges, but luckily we have earned honorary degrees in psychology and detective work.

With an actual degree in teaching, it has been an enlightening experience rearing both neurotypical and neurodivergent children. I look forward to sharing more of the lessons we’ve learned through our mistakes and our happy accidental wins, specifically when it comes to reading. Our older kids may not have our genes, but we all share a love of books, which has helped us to bond almost more than anything else. The author Julius Lester once wrote, “Through stor[ies] we seek to know ourselves and we seek to be known. Thus we become joined with others” (51).¹ I know you can harness that power for yourself and your children, as well.

Why does reading matter to you? There are a myriad of possible reasons (education, entertainment, and escape are just a few). But without a purpose or motivation for reading, it will be difficult to make it a priority. This week, I invite you to discuss this topic with your kids. Tell them why you believe reading is so important. Find or make a reason if you don’t already have one.

¹Lester, Julius. On Writing for Children & Other People. First Edition, Dial Books, 2004.

Photo Credit: Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash 

Varying your child’s reading audience is beneficial for both you and your child. It gives you a break from hearing the same stories over and over. It offers your loved ones the chance to feel needed. It motivates your child, providing a purpose to read the best she can. It renders an opportunity to schedule regular reading times. The more comfortable your child feels reading to others, the easier it will be for her to read aloud in the classroom setting. Lastly, if both of you are willing, it is a fantastic way to serve your community.

Siblings

Having your child read to her siblings frees you up to _________ (fill in the blank) for about 10 to 15 minutes. Take advantage of this time to straighten up the house, brush your teeth, do your nails, or whatever you need to do. Whether it’s an older child reading to younger ones, or a younger child reading to older ones, all will be rewarded in one way or another. This gives them the chance to practice reading or listening, both of which are important skills. They may also bond with each other as they spend time noticing, giggling, commenting, and sharing an experience.

Pets

Libraries have embraced having animals visit in order to assist young readers become more comfortable reading aloud. Cats, dogs, birds, fish, hamsters, and farm animals enjoy the one-on-one attention they get as a child reads to them. In return, they can help lower your child’s stress and anxiety. Rather than interrupt or correct your child, the animals will sit and listen patiently, no matter what the story. This is a delightful way to build your child’s confidence as she reads. If you don’t own a pet, check with a neighbor, the library, or your local shelter to set up an appointment. Find out more about the reading with pets movement and what research has shown here.

Your Village

Don’t forget that you are surrounded by people who want to help! They may just need to be given the chance. Call on your close friends, your child’s old teachers, sweet old neighbors, and people from your congregation or other groups in which you’re involved. Of the people we have asked, we haven’t had anyone turn us down yet! This is a simple way for people to support you as a parent, especially this school year as our kids have missed out on so much time in the classroom. Again, make sure you are present to protect your child.

Seniors

Many people who have lived a full life can find themselves lonely and melancholy after being placed in a care facility. Imagine what a weekly virtual reading date with a child could do for their spirits! Perhaps you know someone in particular who could benefit from this arrangement. If not, call your local memory care center or other assisted living facility and ask if it would be possible to schedule something. Think about individuals with disabilities, particularly those who are blind and those incapable of learning to read. What a great opportunity to serve members of our community and benefit in return. Not only will your child get to practice reading to someone, but also get to know a new friend, and learn to have compassion for others. Once again, this is not something your child would undertake on her own. She would need you by her side. But believe me, you would not want to miss it.

I invite you to schedule an audience for your child this week. After making a few suggestions, have her decide who you call and what she will read to them. Make it a fun, exciting event! Then, watch her glow with pride.

Enjoy the show!

Photo Credit:

Girl reading to dog
Woman hugging girl

Showing your child that you are committed to recording their books demonstrates the importance you place on the act of reading. Previously, I shared two valuable ideas to help you accomplish just that. This article includes two additional ideas for documenting the important work your child is doing. You may be surprised to find what a difference they can make in increasing a child’s willingness to read and in strengthening your bond as a team.

Reading Logs

Most parents of elementary-age children are familiar with these. They are incredibly useful to teachers, who often offer an incentive to reach a certain number of hours spent reading each month. This can be a great tool for you, as well. However, based on our family’s experience, there are a few drawbacks. We found that even though we were doing the reading each day, it was hard to remember to fill in the log. Sometimes the paper got misplaced, our child neglected to turn it in, or it got damaged in backpacks or on the dinner table. Here are some ideas for best success using a reading log:

• Post it to your fridge. This serves as a great daily reminder and keeps the log from getting lost or ruined. 
• Use a sheet protector to keep the log clean and dry. You might even prefer writing over it with a dry-erase marker so you don’t have to print off a new one each month. Taking a picture of it and sending it to the teacher will ensure it never gets lost again.
• If your child is old enough to fill out his own reading log, use it as a way to check in with his reading. After the log is completed, talk with him about which book he enjoyed the most, the least, and why. Ask what he learned from each book. What were some of their themes? This is a fantastic way to get your child to think critically and prepare them for writing book reports later on.
• For those who prefer paper documents, keep all the logs together in a binder as a memento of your child’s reading accomplishments. For those who prefer digital media, take a picture of each log and keep them in a file that is easily accessed. 

These logs will become an important summary of one’s childhood. They are something to take pride in and can provide beloved memories without much effort on your part. In addition, you truly never know when the logs could come in handy. Perhaps a high school or college teacher will ask her to write a report on her favorite childhood author or on some of the children’s books that shaped her beliefs. Someday after your child is grown, she may want to purchase particular books she read in her youth to have available for her own children. These would be difficult tasks without having any record of her reading.

Book Journals

A book journal is similar to a reading app, just in a hard copy. These are an excellent resource, particularly for homeschoolers and teens (or adults!) wanting to record information about the books they have read. Here are some advantages to utilizing a book journal:

• Hard copy journals do not require additional screen time from your kids. Moreover, you won’t have to put any of your personal information on the internet.
• Whatever you write will remain private. You can write out your child’s personal responses and reviews simply for your own records. 
• This time spent together gives another opportunity to discuss what was read and determine your child’s level of understanding.
• A book journal will grow in sentimental value as your child gets older. It will be tender and meaningful to posess their reading history written in your handwriting. Then, as they are able, they can write on their own, providing a timeline of their individual handwriting. 
• Writing things by hand is proven to help you remember information longer. If you or your child are forgetful like me, your chances of remembering titles, authors, and stories improve when you put pen to paper. Plus, you can always return to it later.
• For homeschoolers, this is a ready-made stack of book reports, all bound together! Make your job a whole lot easier by picking up one of these for your student.
• And finally, journals like these provide another beautifully bound tome for book lovers to put on their shelves.

Click on the images below to take a peek inside this sampling of reading journals. Each one is unique and ranges in price and content. I encourage you to look them over carefully to find the one that will inspire your child and fit what you have in mind!

Share in the comments whether you love or hate reading charts and why, or which of these book journals appeals to you the most! 

Happy record keeping!

Photo credit: Jess Bailey on Unsplash

I’m convinced that record keeping is in my genetic makeup. Keeping a daily journal, gratitude/spiritual journal, list of notable quotes, list of books I’ve read, etc., is almost compulsive to me. It’s possible I get it from my dad, who wrote a letter to his mother faithfully each week for over 50 years. But I see the value in it and reap the many benefits, too. 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.

Video

We know that every child is different. Learning to read comes naturally and quickly to some, while others struggle mightily for a long time to get it. In either case, capturing video of his or her reading along the way can be truly valuable. When my preschooler begins to read, I plan on recording her about once a week. Here are some incentives for trying it yourself:

1. It can help motivate readers to improve. Time sometimes gets warped in our heads, especially when we feel like we’re in the spotlight. A video reveals the real-time fluency of our reading and shows whether we are rushing or faltering.
2. It can show children how far they’ve come. When we’re in the middle of working on reaching a goal, it’s hard to tell how much we’ve progressed. A series of videos makes it much easier to see and appreciate.
3. Our child’s confidence will increase as we show encouragement and pride while recording them. A confident child will keep coming back to reading, even when it is difficult.
4. It is a sweet reminder to parents of their child’s efforts and triumphs, which are easy to forget as time sneaks away from us.
5. If we share these videos with loved ones, they can celebrate with our child in their own, unique way, providing further motivation to make progress.

Below is a video of our daughter reading one of her first books. We found it just the other day and were so grateful to have captured this tender moment. She has come so far since then!

This readaloud is posted with permission from Scholastic Books

Digital App

My six-year-old has embraced reading with a passion. She loves it so much that I decided to open a Goodreads account to keep track of the books she has read. The following are reasons I highly recommend you do this for your child, too:

1. It has been so rewarding watching her list of titles grow. Each children’s book cover contributes to making a beautiful visual list of her reading accomplishments. (See picture below.)
2. Goodreads offers you recommendations based on what you have previously read, and allows you to make your own list of titles you want to read in the future.

3. Asking my daughter how many stars to give each book has also helped me know what types of stories are her favorite and which she didn’t care for as much. 
4. Being able to search through titles you have already read together keeps you from accidentally requesting the same books again at the library.
5. The stats make it so easy to determine if we’ve hit a reading slump or are ramping up. This would be helpful in discovering any trends your child may follow.
6. We typically read two to three picture books per day, but have dipped into longer chapter books, as well. Since I began documenting her reading on Goodreads in February of 2019, we have read a surprising 829 books! I would never have known that had I not signed her up. 
7. While this may take a few extra minutes of your day, it demonstrates both the love you have for your child and your interest in what they are reading. These actions will speak loudly to your little reader.

There are many other reading apps for you to choose from. Above are just four for you to evaluate. Some even have reminder alarms, keep track of the time you spent reading, and have achievements you can unlock. I invite you to look them over and choose the best fit for you and your child. Begin documenting your child’s reading journey today. All you need is your cell phone! You will both be surprised and rewarded by this simple, but profound routine. I’d love to hear how you decide to document this journey.

Best of luck to you!

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. Each of us has our own mighty challenges and personal goals. My intention is NOT for you to compare yourself with others (so resist that urge!), but to take stock of your current circumstances and determine your objectives. 

I am certain our family’s attempts at reading have looked like each one of these boats before. Which one best describes your current efforts? 

Sails and Achor Down

Parked and Covered

Going Under!

Smooth Sailing

The Maverick

In closing, this is simply a light-hearted invitation to be introspective. Identifying areas that need improvement can help us to find solutions. The current state of your reading time is not as important as what you would like it to become. If you’re comfortable, share which boat you feel your reading most resembles right now or what you’d like it to look like in the near future. 

Ahoy readers!