“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go!”- Dr. Seuss, I Can Read With My Eyes Shut!
Getting
children reading is one of my passions. Even when he was a baby we loved to
read stories to Max knowing that he wouldn’t have the faintest idea what we
were on about. But knowing that reading to him could hopefully spark that love
of books that I hold so dear to my heart. There is nothing better that
transporting your child into a place of mystery and wonder. A world where dinosaurs
still exist and creatures unknown to the real world are as alive as you and me.
To
instil this love of books we not only surround Max with as many titles as
possible we also created a reading corner for him. My key points to an amazing
reading corner for a child are:
- A comfy chair in which to curl up in, just right for a child. No
big chairs as they aren’t special enough. Or a bean bag chair. Something that
the child can sink into with a good book.
- If not a chair then a wigwam or tent. Somewhere that children can shut themselves off from
the rest of the world for that small time. You need that right setting to
transport you to a faraway land.
- Quiet. I know it sounds silly but how can you concentrate with all
those distractions of the world around you. Turn off your TV and cuddle up as a
family with some of your favourite tales. It’s not antisocial, it’s magical!
- Wall Decals/posters. We have a couple of book posters in Max’s
room. From memorable characters to inspiring quotes.
- Finally books. Whether it’s 1 or 100 make sure that there are
books in your reading corner. Otherwise it’s not really a reading corner is it?
"So please, oh PLEASE, we beg, we pray, Go throw your TV set away, And in its place you can install, A lovely bookshelf on the wall."— Roald Dahl, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Reading
is an amazing gift. A gift of imagination. Every child deserves to read, so
pick up your childhood favourite and transport your child into a wild place
with each turn of the page. Books aren’t daunting and scary things they are
wonderful and exciting.
“There is more treasure in books than in all the pirate’s loot on Treasure Island”- Walt Disney
No comments