Reading Around the Kids Always Helps

Tonight as I sat with my 3 year old and she "read" me a series of books, I realized how vital seeing people read is. Having 5 kids there are tons of books and magazines in our house. I enjoy reading and often do so, but I had to stop and think when my kids have seen me read (besides on my iPad or iPhone). I am sure it had been awhile!

Then I got to thinking about the literacy exposure that my oldest two children received. Yes, I read books with them here and there. They had their favorites which were read over and over. Some nights we read 3 or 4 books and others none. I thought I was doing pretty good. Sadly, I can honestly say that I am not sure they saw me read much of anything.(Ok, the mail and the cake mix or frozen dinner directions.)

I now sit here feeling guilt for their lack of exposure. Especially when I see my youngest three children spend many hours a week reading and telling stories from pictures. They ask their siblings what their books are about and are very excited to "write" their own stories. I know without a doubt that their interest in language/ reading/ telling/ writing is drastically impacted by what they observe happening around them, most notably by their older siblings. 

So what can I do about it? Instead of hiding my stack of "I want to read" books and dozens of magazines in my office, I am going to put them on display. I can also make sure that during "quiet time" that I take a a few minutes to read with them or next to them. Finally, I can take interest in what they are reading (even if I can't stand the genre). 

The love of literacy can be built at any age and with my family we start to build/ enhance that love tomorrow! 

Happy Reading! 

Franklin Comes for a Visit

Gotta love the excitement when guests come! This week we have had Franklin ( yes, the Turtle from PBS) come and visit. The best part is that there is no food involved and the house doesn't have to be cleaned.


The 1st grade teacher in Underwood has a Franklin that goes home each week with her students. Franklin comes with a tote bag, a book and a journal. The kids get to write about what they have done with Franklin during the week and either draw or glue pictures onto the journal pages. I love it! Libby loves it too! It is so much fun to read about what Franklin has been doing throughout the year on his visits to the different homes. It is also fun to see how the kids have changed through pictures and writing! The only trouble with the entire process is when you get forget to take pictures and write so you play catch up at the week's end!

This week Franklin has had many adventures... reading, bedroom cleaning, playing outdoors, building a chicken coop, hanging out at the dinner table, visiting the guys at the shop while drinking coffee, snow removal duty, and has been on a snowmobile and bus ride. He has also experienced our ever so lovely winter storm-- farm style.

This is such a fun family project and one that I hope each first grader gets to experience!