Reading Is Fundamental

Reading every day to your children should begin when they are infants. Numerous studies indicate that early reading to your children helps them to speak and read early themselves. It provides an opportunity for you to bond with your children and open up the beginning of starting a dialogue regarding important values like honesty, respect and responsibility.

When I was writing the "Don't Be That KID!" Series, I made the decision to make it a rhyming picture book. Picture books with colorful illustrations provide additional information not covered in the storyline. Children have the ability to expand upon a scene and add their own versions of what might happen.

Rhyming books with repeated patterned sounds like "Don't Be That KID!" in each scene make a story fun for children. They benefit from hearing the rhyming language and repetitive sounds. Rhymes prepare children to be able to read themselves by helping them focus on the sounds in words.

Never underestimate the importance of reading with your children. The Holidays are approaching. Always remember to include a book in your gift giving!