Reading can empower people of all ages. And, parents who launch or participate in a book club can find it beneficial and invigorating! Discover why.
ADVANTAGES OF READING
“The instruction we find in books is like fire. We fetch it from our neighbours, kindle it at home, communicate it to others, and it becomes the property of all.” ~ Voltaire
The advantages of reading are manifold.
They include information, insight, connectivity, perspective, literacy, and a love of learning. And, that’s just the beginning. Moreover, the best part is that words need not be contained! They have a life of their own once people start to think, converse, collaborate, and create. Research shows that reading stimulates neural connections; enhances vocabulary, writing, and communication skills; and stimulates learning—kindling knowledge, curiosity, creative expression, and progress.
“Parents and teachers can encourage children to write and also to read; to find enlightening material, including audio books and podcasts; to share literary experiences; to record their reflective journeys in journals; and to reflect upon and discuss the different kinds of messages that words convey. The end result? Children develop meaningful understandings and learn to be discerning.” ~ ABCs of Raising Smarter Kids, p. 74
The best way for adults to teach children the value of reading is to demonstrate that it is integral to daily life.
PARENTING—AND THE POWER OF BOOKS
“Reading furnishes the mind only with materials of knowledge; it is thinking that makes what we read ours.” ~ John Locke
When parents (and educators) read books and reflect upon them—and engage in lively and helpful conversations about child development and related matters—they discover ways to strengthen parenting and teaching practices. Thought is a forerunner to dialogue, which is foundational for building support networks, making alliances, considering different points of view, integrating perspectives, and staying connected. These, in turn, are all-important as parents strive to support and encourage children’s learning and well-being.
