September 2009

Photo from katphoto on Flickr

The greatest gift you can give a child {aside from your time, love and attention} is the gift of literacy. We all want what’s best for our children and, really, what could be better than opening the door that quite literally puts the whole world at their fingertips? KSW has come up with a list of 10 handy moments to help you get your kids ready for reading.

1. On your way to school – If you’re at all like me, you probably have a hard time letting go of your little ones in the morning. Something about that state of half-consciousness when they allow all the cuddles and kisses you can dish out just melts my heart. Cherish these sweet moments while also inserting a little educational mommy & me time by reading a book on the couch before or after putting on their shoes … OR … if your children have a bit of a separation issue, ease them out the {car} door by reading one of their favorite stories. You’ll both be more relaxed and at ease with what’s ahead of you, what a great way to start your day.

2. At Nap Time – Nap Time can be a difficult time in any household but I’ve found the right book can make the whole situation a whole lot easier on everyone. Lately, I’ve been using The Napping House to get my kids ready. We whisper most of the story and ad-lib a bit {we do this with every story} and then I stop the book just before the flea wakes everyone up and tell the kids we’ll finish the rest of the book AFTER nap time – there’s no need to get them all wound up and excited just before bed.

3. In the Car – Purchase some engaging board books or picture books for your children to keep in the car. Allowing your children access to reading materials on road trips instead of television or video games can benefit your children in more ways than you’d imagine. Besides the obvious educational benefits, you’re also promoting a healthy imagination and an independent sense of play. Your child will be more capable of keeping themselves entertained in almost any situation.

4. Before Meal Time – Mealtime can be the CRAZIEST time of day for many of us. There are 100 things going on and all of them vying for your attention, meanwhile your toddler is doing laps around the kitchen table, full of some new found energy you’re not quite sure where they’ve found. There’s screaming … and scrambling … and you’re doing your best to get something healthy onto the table, Pronto. Want to know how? Pull out the big guns, your secret weapon … Daddy. Toddlers are desperately craving some attention from their fathers during this time of day and wouldn’t it be better for everyone to turn this potential disaster period into a positive {ahem, learning experience} that also provides you with just the right amount of quiet time to whip up something wonderful.

5. At the Doctor’s office – We’ve all been there … a crowded waiting room full of cranky, contagious toddlers, all of whom are on the brink of a meltdown at ANY moment. It’s a stressful situation for all of us, but how do we cope? Turn this situation in your favor and occupy your toddler {and others if you’re willing} with a captive narration of your favorite children’s tale. Board books that fit in your purse are a MUST for moms on the go – Mr. Brown Can Moo Can You has saved me from quite a few embarrassing moments in public.

6. At the grocery store – Kids + Grocery Shopping notoriously = DISASTER. Make this situation easier for yourself and your child by bringing along some engaging board books (with clips for the shopping carts if possible) Your kids will be entertained and you’ll have a bit of time to do some shopping instead of mindless grabbing.

7. At the end of the day – Instead of curling up to watch TV this evening, try cozying on the couch and reading as a family. Short stories might work best for little ones, but as your children get older and more interested in reading try switching to a story or series you can read a little bit each night.

8. At Bath Time – Turn bath time into an educational opportunity by introducing books made especially for the water or letting your kids play with foam numbers and letters in the tub.

Photo from Flickr

9. At Bed Time – Preparing toddlers for bedtime can be a real chore, especially if you don’t have your routine down pat. Help ease your little ones into a calmer state by reading … counting … and reciting the alphabet before turning out the lights. Letting youngsters choose their bedtime stories even gives them a sense of control in an otherwise seemingly hostile situation.

10. Anytime! – There really is no wrong time to pull out a book or practice the alphabet. Keep books in the bathroom, flashcards in your purse, and magnetic letter on your fridge. Your children will Thank You for the all the effort you put in now, when they get older.

Try introducing reading to your toddlers, at any of these opportune times in your day and your kids will be well on their way to reading in no time! The more we expose our children to reading and the more joyful of an experience we make it for them … the more likely they’ll grow up with a love for reading, a playful imagination, some wonderful memories and a strong sense of family values. Not to mention, a desire for learning that’s going to make us all VERY proud.