Books are my favorite gift. I read to my kids throughout the day and try to read a chapter or two from a non-picture book every night. Because nothing is more relaxing than being transported into a story for a beat of time. My younger one at the age of 2 usually falls asleep to my voice. The kid’s library is important to me. Always accessible, always offering a chance to teach them the importance of literacy. No Dewey Decimal system in my house. Just simple organization at their little fingertips. Board books for the little one on one shelf. Japanese books in one area, hardbound books on one shelf with paperbacks grouped together. Yes, sometimes there are moments of, “that book again?” I mean how many times can I possibly read about the frickin’ Pout Pout Fish or battle against the Four Leggers on Hoth? But it’s ok. I take a deep breath when the littles bring me a book to read. If they willingly picked it and brought it to me, I oblige. Every time. Even when it means putting whatever I’m doing aside no matter how pressing it seems in that moment. It’s just another way to show my love. When a small body is nestled into my lap for a quick read, I’m theirs. And they are mine.
Keep reading with your kidlettes.
-K