Reading aloud to young children has countless benefits. It boosts success in school, grows vocabulary, builds knowledge about the world, strengthens listening skills, and even helps kids learn to write their names (Parents as Teachers). With all these benefits in mind, why not kick off the new year with a Family Reading Challenge? It’s a fun way for families to discover new books together, celebrate reading milestones, and create a lifelong love of stories.
In search of books? We suggest registering your child for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library inspires a love of reading by gifting books free of charge to children from birth to age five. You can register your child
here.
Family Book Challenge How-To
1. Set a Goal: Reading aloud is important for young children, so a great goal is to read at least one book each day. If that feels like too much, choose a goal that works best for your family. Consistency is what matters most.
2. Track Progress: Use a simple chart, sticker board, or small journal to mark each book you read. Seeing progress can be fun and motivating for little ones!
3. Celebrate Wins: Celebrate every book you finish together! Share a favorite part, draw a picture, act out a scene, or give a small reward. Every win counts.
4. Mix It Up: Variety keeps kids engaged. Include picture books, board books, short stories, or interactive books. Reading the same story multiple times is okay—repetition helps children learn and builds confidence.
5. Make It a Routine: Pick a regular time each day for reading, like before nap or bedtime. Consistency helps young children know what to expect and makes reading a comforting part of the day.
6. Encourage Participation: Let your child turn the pages, point to pictures, or “read” along with you. Ask simple questions about the story to spark conversation and help build comprehension.
Remember, the goal is to enjoy reading together as a family. When reading is fun and encouraged, it helps children grow into lifelong readers.
About the Author:
Heather Sakai has been a member of the Bright Beginnings team since early 2022, serving as the Social Media and Family Engagement Coordinator. She holds a Master of Science in Social Service Administration and a Master of Arts in Contemporary Dance from Case Western Reserve University. Heather brings experience in social work and mood disorders research, marketing and social media, as well as dance instruction for children and adults in both the United States and abroad. Passionate about connecting people through social media, Heather strives to make it a safe space to ask questions, be vulnerable, and share successes and struggles. She is also the administrator of
Cuyahoga Parents Connect and warmly invites you to join if you are a parent or caregiver of a child from birth to kindergarten, or if you are expecting a child.