One of the habits that helped us to create a sense of connection was reading aloud. In our busy culture, we spend much of our time as families away from one another. By choosing to read aloud at the end of the day, you are forming a habit that emphasizes being together. As you read each book, you are adding to your shared knowledge and experiences. Collectively, you are being shaped by the books that you read. Really, it’s simple. Pick up a book and read.
What if you find yourself saying, “But I am not a reader”?
It may be possible that you do not think of yourself as a reader. Can it be because the books you have read have neither piqued your imagination nor your interest? Not all books are written with the same level of worthiness. You can develop a passion for well-written books and for knowing where to find them . Well-written books speak across the generations; books that you read to your children should likewise be of interest to you. If you find them dull and full of nonsense, your children probably do too.
What makes a well-written book?
It will take some time to develop your own answer to this question, and each family’s answer will be uniquely their own. A good place to start is by considering some of the following points. Even if make believe, the characters should exemplify that which is believable. They should call us to ideals that are good and worthy and excellent. All the characters that we read about will not necessarily be good. But we should not be drawn to the characters who are not. Without moralizing, the writing leads us to the conclusion that concepts like friendship and kindness and adventure are worthy of pursuing. Even if they are unable to verbalize it, children will begin to understand these concepts as they romp through the Hundred Acre Woods with Winnie-the-Pooh and Piglet.
What benefit does reading aloud bring?
Long after the last page is turned, the stories linger on in our minds. They give to us a treasure trove of encouragement and perspective that we can draw upon at points of need in our own lives. Page after page we are tucking away in our innermost being truths that will shape us. And the beautiful thing is that the process is almost effortless. It comes by getting comfy on the couch in your own living room at the end of the day. It’s simple! Pick up a book and read.