When I was a child, with limited technology- no cell phone in my hand, no internet access, no I-Pads, the best pass time for me was to read different genres of books and elevate my thought process. And I still remember every single night I would not sleep without reading a book until I heard the yelling of my parents to turn off the light and go off to sleep. Reading boosted my brain and developed my imagination. Who has not heard of the all-time favorite Dr. Suess and his famous saying” The more you read, the more things you know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go”. Undoubtedly, the more you read, the more you get exposed to rich vocabulary which helps in being articulate and well-spoken in your future life both professionally and socially. Also, a 2009 study at the university of Sussex found that reading reduces stress and anxiety up to 68%. It further develops analytical thinking and the creative side of the person.
Here are some of the ways to get your kids off to a great start! Nothing seems to be hard in life and, we as parents must initiate the step forward to help our children make the right choice- use a cell phone or read a book for pleasure. Just try to set aside time to read every day. In today’s internet-crazed world people are constantly engrossed in texting, chatting, surfing internet, skype etc. whenever they are free or traveling to a different place. Just carry a book with you while commuting in a public transit. Try to read your favorite passages in the book aloud and visualize the beautiful scenario. Do not lose an opportunity to read to a younger one in your family or community. Lastly, unplug the television screens to reduce the technology time and connect by utilizing the time to read good books.
Someone has rightly said,” A child who READS will be an ADULT who thinks.” Encourage all your kids to inculcate the habit of reading which will greatly help to build their self-esteem and a greater ability to cope up with reality. Reading will develop the language skills and fluency. It is such a gratifying feeling when I look up my bookshelf and say,” I have read each of those books and need to get more books”. And I always encourage my both kids myself to stimulate their interest in reading so that they become smarter and a better person in future life.
So, “Be awesome. Be a Book Nut.”
Written By-
Gagan Dhir
Educator- ELA