Regrettably, recent statistics reveal that only one-third of children find joy in reading during their leisure time. Imagine a world where children are surrounded by books, where reading is viewed not as a task but as an adventure. How can we bring this vision to life? By making reading accessible and thrilling for every child.
As parents, it is our responsibility to provide our children with a diverse array of books that cater to different interests and reading abilities. This strategy helps ensure that every child uncovers a story that sparks their curiosity. Schools, libraries, and community centers can play a vital role in this endeavor. A visit to the library can be a journey in itself, and my kids particularly love it! The children’s section is bright and inviting, and the café adds to the experience! These places can turn reading into a fun and social activity.
Family plays a crucial role in nurturing a love for reading. A quiet evening spent together, lost in books, sharing stories, and exchanging thoughts can create a warm environment that fosters a lifelong appreciation for literature. For our tech-savvy children, e-books and audiobooks offer a modern twist to the reading experience. I feel fortunate that my kids can experience the joy of stories when I recount my visits as an author to schools, where I see the enthusiasm it generates among students. I recognise the significant responsibility I have to make sure that reading is not forgotten and to ignite a passion for literature. These visits are highlights for me, as I love engaging with a room full of children and inspiring them to read and write, which brings me such happiness!
By cultivating a culture that values and celebrates reading, we can motivate a new generation of passionate readers. With the right encouragement, we can reverse the trend, ensuring that children not only learn to read but also uncover the joy that reading offers. When we nurture a love for books in our children, we provide them with tools to discover new worlds, embrace diverse viewpoints, and develop empathy. The magic lies in creating a shared, cherished reading experience.
Picture a cozy evening with the family, huddled together to listen to a beloved story or engaged in a lively discussion about favourite characters and plot twists. These moments not only strengthen family bonds but also foster a deep appreciation for stories and learning.
Since I began my writing journey, both of my youngest children have developed a genuine passion for writing and reading. They’ve come to understand that there is an entire world waiting to be explored, and my path as an author has motivated them to embrace the joy of literacy. This mutual love for reading and writing has not only deepened our family connections but also instilled in them a sense of curiosity and wonder about the world. As an author, it fills me with pride to see my passion reflected in their eyes.
Let’s work together to ensure that books and reading do not fade into obscurity!
Together, we are creating a legacy of literacy that I hope will inspire others to discover their own magic in the world of words.
Love and blessings,
Eliza x