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Gift the Reading Habit
The habit of reading can be a lifetime gift for your child.
Impressionable
minds can be nurtured and molded in ways more than one. But books
and the printed word are among the best tools used for reaching out to
a child. Despite the deep penetrating reach of the visual media, books
have a definite edge over other mediums of communication and entertainment.
Child psychologists and counselors have often stressed the importance of
the reading habit in modern-day children.
However, it
is quite obvious that the book culture is on the decline. Parents need
to resurrect this habit as it adds multiple dimensions to a child's growth.
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As books are good
portable friends, which have the potential of engaging a child's mind,
they can broaden the sphere of experience. A quick read of the adventures
of Sindbad, or Alibaba or Robin Hood transports the child to different
worlds. He or she can relate to new and thrilling experiences, quite different
from everyday happenings. The variety in the book reading is bound to reflect
in the child's knowledge.
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Reading sharpens
the thought processes of a child. It increases his or her attention span.
It gives him the faculty of thinking and understanding.
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Language is a
gift for a child and books give this gift in abundance. Reading a book
aloud can be a good exercise not just for memorization but also for improvement
of speech and vocabulary. Books trigger a child's imagination.
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Bedtime reading
is considered the best quality time spent with a kid. Psychiatrists feel
that bedtime reading helps to build strong bonding with the child.
The printed
word is not the sole reservoir of knowledge. Television, Internet and other
modern audio-visual media also contribute to the child's growth. However,
reading should compliment other mediums. Otherwise, it leads to lopsided
development. Just consider these shocking statistics. A 1998 survey of American
children showed that 54 per cent chose to watch television when given the
options of either watching TV and being with parents. The average American
child (between two to 11 years of age) spends around 1,197 minutes per
week watching television. Closer home, Indian children fare no better than
their American counterparts. Doctors have found that children suffered
because of the habit of eating during television time. Children have missed
exams and outdoor sports due to their favorite teleserials. TV time also
takes its toll on children's eyesight.
It is never
too late for your child to start reading. Preferably, catch the child young.
Bring him other colorful books, so that reading becomes a favorite pastime.
The parent has also got to read enough in order to become a model for the
little one. And not to forget, family reading is the best way to grow.
Ever remember your initial sessions with your grandma!
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