“Once upon a time….”Are they not the most glorious words in the English language? And how much time, do we as parents spend reading with our children? It is just so important.
A headmaster was heard telling someone at a local school, “Far too often, parents tell me their child is ‘not a reader’. But that’s a copout. It’s a kid’s job to read and a parent’s job to persist for as long as it takes.” The key is to regard reading as a delight rather than a duty. Start early with your children and be theatrical when you read out
loud to your children (and grandchildren). Be animated and alive, however most importantly, be present. If you’re not interested and you don’t sound like you care whether Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy gets frightened by Scarface Claw or not, your child will know the difference.
Some children want to read the same book over and over again, then great let them do this. A lifelong relationship with a story is a lovely thing. For those long trips, audio books are marvellous. Remember a trip to the local library can be a weekly occurrence to choose a new book and audio.
So I would like to challenge all the mums and dads, and the grandparents, to take the time to read with your children and grandchildren and take yourself back to your childhood. Let us know what books your children like and how much time you spend with them reading. If you are part of a children’s reading group then perhaps you would like to share the details. Send us your story and the best story wins a voucher from Woolworths to the value of $50.
Woolworths is once again proud to be supporting education for Australian kids. Earn & Learn is back for 2015 and will offer early learning centres, primary schools and secondary schools the opportunity to benefit again, until September 8. Details of how to participate are available in stores and sticker sheets can be dropped into a collection box at your school or local store.