Since I’m a mom with multiple sclerosis, I’m always on the lookout for ways I can be involved in a positive way in their parenting. One of the best ways I’ve discovered for quality and enriching time with them is reading. This activity does not require physicial prowess or cause much fatigue, but it brings us closer in a way while helping them to learn.
What to read?
Most of the children’s books I have in my house are for them to read to themselves. Those are great for the nights when I turn the tables and let them read to me. They enjoy cuddling up and showing me how much they’ve learned. But I like reading them books that are more challenging and introduce them to books that they’re not ready to explore on their own. We also like to read chapter books, so that they’re looking forward to reading more the next evening. But where do you start?
Libraries – This is my favorite resource, for many reasons. First of all, books are expensive and take up space, but checking them out of the library doesn’t cost anything. Most libraries have lists available that could help you get some ideas. My library has loose leaf binders full of lists for different interests and age groups. You can also ask a librarian.
Your Memories – What books did you enjoy reading when you were a child? There were some books that literally fell apart because I read them over and over. Since I enjoyed them so much, I’m looking forward to sharing the books with my kids.
Teachers – Teachers appreciate when children are reading and being read to at home, because it reinforces the lessons from school. A teacher would be able to bring up some ideas if you asked.
Movies – If your kids have seen a movie based on a book, introduce them to the book that inspired the movie. My older son brought home Roald Dahl’s The Twits from the school library. I told him that author was the same person who wrote Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and James and the Giant Peach. His eyes widened – he thought those movies were great. Sure enough, the next book he brought home from the library was Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Online – There are a number of book sites where you could search for ideas on appealing children’s books. You’d be able to see readers’ ratings and reviews to help you decide whether the book is right for your family. Two of my favorite sites are Goodreads and Library Thing.
Don’t be surprised if your kids seem disinterested at first. I started reading The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe last night, and the boys acted like they were not paying attention. When I got to the end of the chapter, they immediately asked me if I could read another chapter. And when I was finished reading, my older son was worried I wouldn’t be able to find my place again and brought me a bookmark.
Since there are so many books in the Narnia series, it will take awhile before I have to pick a new book. I already know what I want to read to them next – Lloyd Alexander’s Chronicles of Prydain series. I wore out those paperbacks when I was younger, because I read them so many times. I’ve got contingency plans in case the first book (The Book of Three) is checked out when I go the library.
