You hear it over and over again, the benefits of reading. There really is no evidence disputing the benefits of reading to young children. Mamas are even encouraged to do it BEFORE their baby is born! If you need solid reasons, here’s a list of 100 I found.
So you read to your kid 20 minutes a night and fill out a reading log to send to school. Congratulations on having that piece of your life together. I read all the time and just this year I decided to keep a list of the books I read. I’ve dropped the ball on it. *shrug*
However, a lovely lady I follow on Instagram has started doing weekly-ish book talks based on a Book Challenge list she is doing this year. They’re simply fantastic. (It helps she is very eloquent when speaking and incredibly intelligent.) These book talks of hers got me thinking about my own kids.
We seem to always stick to the same stories, and yes, there is something to be said about repetition when reading to children and how it builds their vocabulary and fluency, etc. etc. But there is also something to be said about broadening their horizons, so to speak, when it comes to experiencing literature. I looked on Pinterest and found a couple of book challenges for kids, but they did not include all the areas in which I would want my children to dive. So I created my own.
You will see there is space between each to record the actual title of the book to keep track. I know some books may “double up” on areas and that is okay, but I challenge you to push your own kids to find a new book for each. Some of these topics would allow for great conversation between you and your child. Some would even encourage discussion with a librarian – and that is a skill in and of itself – asking for help and communicating your needs. Plus, JUST USE YOUR PUBLIC LIBRARY! It is a great resource and it is free. 🙂
I have attached the list as a word document. Honestly, this isn’t even something just parents can use. Teachers can challenge their students, at really any level. What conversations AMONG students could be had when they have something to focus on like literature and life rather than menial things such as clothing and who wore it best.
HAPPY READING, FRIENDS!
Knitty Gritty 