We all know that good readers have one thing in common:  they read.  Not all good readers read a lot, but when they do read, they are able to apply reading strategies to understand and, hopefully, enjoy the book.

As the year begins, it's important to get kids reading every day.  By creating time during our day for students to read, just 20 minutes, gives them an opportunity to practice good reading.  In addition to reading in the class, we often ask students to read at home each night.  Trust me, as a teacher, I have heard the moans and groans from both students and parents.  There is even a lot of resistance to this because people, both teachers and parents, feel that "requiring" students to read each night and filling out a reading log diminishes the reading experience.  I see both sides.  However, I came across this site that explains how 20 minutes of reading each night can reap benefits for children.  Mathematically, you can't argue the facts.

As a teacher and a parent, I whole-heartedly understand why parents get flustered with the dreaded reading log.  As a teacher, I always explained to parents that I just want the kids to sit and read, anything, for 20 minutes.  Reading should be fun!  Finding great books should be an adventure. Sharing the great books can be a bonding experience as well.  Quite frankly, it's our peaceful routine for each evening. I encourage you to check out the site below explaining the benefits of reading each night.  Try to set aside time for everyone to read together.  It can really be as simple as reading a chapter or two of a book each night together.  Reading to your child counts too!  It's simply all about the experience.

• Why Read for 20 Minutes Each Day? 
• Make Reading a Habit at Home - Parent Tips
• Helping Your Child Choose "Just Right" Books
• Check out my Resources page for Audio book links too. Listening to stories is just as fun!