
Our family comes from a long line of book worms. I think it started with Lico Bear (grandpa). From an early age I remember him ALWAYS reading. His addictive example was passed onto me and my sisters. Through the years, I have painstakingly prepared my children to develop a love for reading (see post - Confessions March 2009). Now that it has been properly instilled in the older three – I have had to reverse the cycle and use it as a parenting tool to my advantage.
“ You can read after you finish your chores.” (with a smile)
“Let’s get the yard work done and then go to the library.”
“Hurry and brush your teeth and get into bed so that you can read for a bit.” (and me too)
“You better be good so that your books stay in your room!” Kids – Sniff sniff.
“You’re grounded! No reading tonight!” Kids - Whaaa!

(Fablehaven book signing with Brandon Mull -
La has had all 4 books signed over the years.)
After many endeavors of persuading my children to share a book and save money by purchasing only ONE book, we now have several double copies of books and series. No one wants to wait for someone to finish a book.
Each room has a personal library and mine is slowing dwindling and moving into Makayla's library which is now organized with a dewy dismal system.
From early on, Cameron and I have told the kids that we would always pay for half the price of a book if the kids wanted to purchase it. Makayla has taken full advantage and most of her earnings go to build her library. Jarin also buys his own books. I cringe every time a school book order comes home.

Jarin was awarded 'the boy who read the most in the fourth grade' prize
by the Lehi Burningham Truck Company.

Now that T has moved from 'readers' to chapter books - he too has joined the book worm club. He still delights in the Captain Underpants books - as if he needs any more potty humor to foster his savvy personality.

Since passing the chewing book stage, the girls now feverishly browse
through picture books for a good solid hour.
I love that time.
I love their piggies too.
3 comments:
I'm envious. I remember summers of reading -- trying to read the most pages for the Pleasant Grove Library competition. I need to make more time to read now -- it's sporadic at best!
I have a father that read non-stop and I learned to love books from him too. I read from the time I could figure out phonics, and books are a treasure to me too. Love the piggie toe picture. Priceless.
I got my reading bug from my mom, so maybe it's just a Pack thing. :) Both my 9 & 7 year old are big-time readers as well. Isn't it grand to see our children embrace the things we love!
I don't cringe with the coming of the new book order--I grab it for myself! With Jimmy in 4th grade this past year, he was finally bringing home orders with books in it that I wanted to own/read! I got so many great books this year for my library! :)
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