"Back To School"

FAMILIES THAT PLAY TOGETHER

Now that everyone has settled back into the “school routine”, it seems like life gets crazy once again.  Our days are filled with being a taxi driver and our evenings are filled with homework.  

When talking to adults about books, the most common comment I hear is, “Reading!  Who has time!!!”  I totally understand that feeling.  However, I love to read so I manage to find time … even if I only get through a few pages.

The bigger problem than finding time for us to read is instilling in our family members the same love for books.  Some kids and some spouses, come naturally by it.  Others … not so much.   So here’s a fun way I found to help encourage reading with your family.  BINGO!

Print out a Bingo card for each member in your family and come up with a big prize or reward for the winner.  You can play “Reading Bingo” any way you like.  Kids can start by getting one line.  Others can try for the outside edges or even fill in the entire card!  Just have fun with it and let us know how it goes!

ADULT CARDS

YA CARDS

KID CARDS

Below are some reasons why reading and kids are an important combination:

#1 - Kids who read often and widely get better at it.

If you want your kids to be good readers, it only makes sense that they need to practice.  Reading is no different than sports, dance, etc.  Practice makes perfect!

#2 – Reading exercises our brains.

TV doesn’t do much for our kids besides give them mindless entertainment.  As we read, we build new connections in our brain and strengthens it at the same time.

#3 – Reading improves concentration.

It’s one of those times when children have to learn to sit quietly for an extended period of time and concentrate.

#4 – Reading teaches children about the world around them.

When reading, children experience things and place and people they may never otherwise experience.

#5 – Reading improves vocabulary and language skills.

From an early age, children who are read to discover new words.  They unconsciously take in information and they learn sentence structure and how to use words properly.

#6 – Reading develops imagination.

When you read, you hear words but your mind sees images.  We find ourselves engaged in the story and we can feel what the characters are feeling.  Kids are running out of imagination.  Books keep it alive.

#7 – Reading helps develop empathy.

When you read, you find yourself feeling what the characters are feeling and you can identify with them.

#8 – Children who read do better in school.

This is probably the best reason to read yet!

#9 – Reading is a great form of entertainment.

You can take a book with you anywhere.  It’s small and easy to carry.  So next time you’re waiting in line or at a doctor’s office … pull out a good book.

#10 – Reading relaxes the body and calms the mind.

I think in today’s world, we sometimes forget how to relax.  Everything is constant … whether it’s video games, TV, smart phones, computers, etc.  This can be stressful for the brain.  When we read … it’s silent.  It’s calm.  We can actually relax and breathe.

(I first saw the Bingo game online.  Check it out here:  Bingo)