Parents, You Must Read Too!

Some parents complain that their kids do not spend enough time reading. They whine that all their kids ever want to do is sit in front of the television or play computer games. As parents, the best way that we can get our children to read is for our kids to see us reading too. How can you expect your kids to like reading if all they see you do is watch the television too?

Reading may take a backseat given all the chores and responsibilities that come with parenting. I mean, in between taking the kids to school and working in the office for a demanding boss, where do you find the time to read?

The answer lies in how much we parents like to read. If you enjoy an activity, you will find the time for it. Make reading your relaxation time. It will help if your kids will see you reading the newspapers (though it may be hard to relax if you are reading the news), magazines, or even your bills! It’s better though if they will see you reading your “chosen” books so that mom and dad can lead by example and truly practice what they preach.

How can you make time for reading? Set aside 15 to 30 minutes every day. Wake up 15 minutes earlier and read for about 15 minutes before you go to bed. Read something which is not remotely work-related. That may make reading more enjoyable.

If you can do so, always have a book on hand in your bag or briefcase. You can then catch up on your reading while you are waiting for your kids, are in between meetings, or happen to be stuck in traffic (Just make sure you’re not driving.). You can even read during your lunch break or coffee break.

So parents, if you wish to see your kids reading more, you must read more too. Isn’t that great? Now you have an excuse to buy that super-expensive hardbound book that you’ve had your eyes on for the longest time. “What? This book? Oh, I’m reading it for the benefit of my son and/or daughter.” =)

2 comments ↓

#1 Jane on 07.11.07 at 6:43 am

Hi, Angel. Thanks for visiting my site.

I have no problem getting my kids to read. My problem is how to get them to stop, esp when they have homework to do. You are right. If we parents don’t read, they are likely not to enjoy reading too.

When my kids were growing up, my idea of babysitting them in the mall was not really the toy shops. I’d bring them to Powerbooks (and now, Fully Booked, which is nearer our home) and they’d sit down on the carpet and read the whole afternoon. Of course, it was cheaper than if I bought the books outright since they’d finish the entire thing in 1 or 2 days (sometimes just hours, for a small book).

My daughters now save up their allowance to buy books. And for special occasions, many times they ask to be given books.

Great site. I will be coming back.

#2 Angel on 07.12.07 at 12:46 am

Hi Jane,

Thanks for dropping by here. Great to hear that your kids like to read and save up their money for it. Would be happy to hear from you regarding what types of books they like to read.

Thanks for the kind words.

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