As a mom and a fervent advocate for literacy, my mission is twofold: to champion the transformative power of literacy in all facets of life and to support fellow moms on their journey. I've found that books are like magic wands, capable of vanquishing many of the worries that come with motherhood. So, you got a problem, YO, books'll solve it - check out the facts while my DJ revolves it. *Disclaimer - I don't have a DJ, and if you don't understand this it's because I'm an 80's baby and you're probably too young...
Problem: Too much screen time
Now, I'm not one to play the screen time police. My son gets his fair share of TV and tablet time, often complementing his favorite STEM activities with similar educational videos. But I also believe in balancing that with screen-free activities to keep him active, imaginative, and honing different skills.
Solution: Interactive Books / Activity Books
Remember Highlights? (Again, maybe I'm showing my age!) It's still a gem, but nowadays, kids have even more options like reusable activity books. No more fretting over mistakes or tossing completed pages; these books are wipe-clean wonders. For curious toddlers, books with flaps and cutouts are a hit. Whenever your child is hesitant to dive into reading time, try whipping out one of these engaging gems! Experiment with different interactive books to find what clicks best with your child's interests and developmental stage.
Problem: Dislike / No desire to read
Reading shouldn't feel like a chore; it's a gateway to adventure and discovery. But if your child isn't feeling the literary love, it's time to switch up the approach.
Solution: Reading material that is appealing to their interests, combined with a culture of reading
Lead by example—let your child see you engrossed in a book. Cultivate a home environment where reading is celebrated. Maybe your child isn't into traditional chapter books but lights up at the sight of a graphic novel. That's okay! Feed their interests with diverse reading materials. And hey, if you need more tips on igniting a love for reading, check out my previous post on the subject!
Problem: Need help in supporting education
Whether by choice or circumstance, many parents have found themselves thrust into the world of homeschooling. It's a challenging terrain to navigate, but fear not, help is at hand.
Solution: Find nonfiction / educational books that are also fun
Say goodbye to dry textbooks! Dive into historically inspired fiction or explore nonfiction in a fun, interactive way. Pair learning about the human body with assembling a puzzle depicting blood flow—learning made hands-on and exciting. Opt for books with digestible chunks of information, making learning less daunting and more enjoyable.
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Problem: Struggling to learn to read
The struggle to read can be disheartening for both parent and child, but it's not an insurmountable hurdle.
Solution: Use a leveled set / program that takes out the guess work
Ditch the guesswork with leveled sets tailored to your child's skills, not their age. Challenge without overwhelming, paving the way for confident, enjoyable reading experiences. Need a roadmap? Check out my handy book matching guide for how to choose the perfect level books.
Problem: Below reading level / vocabulary level for age
Every child blooms at their own pace—embrace the journey.
Solution: Just keep reading
Consistency is key. Devote just 15 minutes a day to reading, be it with your child, to them, or independently. Watch as their literacy skills blossom. And for that extra boost, try a reading reward chart as a visible incentive.
Problem: Low connection / engagement with kids
Bonding over books creates cherished memories and deepens parent-child connections.
Solution: Read aloud
Reading together isn't just about literacy—it's about forging bonds and creating moments. It's about showing your child that they matter, that their stories matter. So, cuddle up, dive into a story, and let the magic of reading strengthen your bond.
Incorporating books into daily life isn't just about boosting literacy—it's about building connections, fostering imagination, and creating cherished memories. As moms, we have the power to transform everyday challenges into opportunities for growth and bonding through the magic of reading. So, let's turn the page together, explore new worlds, and discover the joy that books bring. Whether you're navigating screen time, encouraging a reluctant reader, or finding ways to support your child's education, remember that every story we share and every page we turn brings us closer together.
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