2008 is the National Year of Reading!
Why reading & sharing stories matters


Did you know that 2008 has been named the “National Year of Reading” by the National Literacy Trust? Reading is not only fun, but literacy is the most important way to build a child’s language and understanding. Plus, reading helps build relationships with new friends! There are reading groups at many libraries, bookstores and businesses that children can join in the area where they live (such as the Kids Reading Club right here at Lehigh Valley Mall)!

Words are everywhere, and many children will find that their vocabulary and reading comprehension skills grow as they age. Here are some tips for parents – and kids who can read along – for becoming readers from the time that you’re a toddler all the way through the ‘big kid’ stage:

 When reading to children ages 0-3 years, remember it’s never too early to start sharing stories. Point out the pictures and encourage your baby to repeat sounds.
 From age 3, children ‘pretending’ to read is a natural activity. Encourage it and let them get familiar with books, so they get on better when they start school.
 Help your child join in. Let them turn pages and guess what happens next!
 From five years old, encourage your child to read to you. Follow the words with your finger and sound them out loud.
 When your child is older, encourage them and their friends to talk about what they read, and to share good books with each other.
 Suggest your older children read to younger members of the family. Little ones often look up to their big brothers and sisters, and will want to do what they do. This also encourages the whole family to build a reading household.

Spring is a great time to get children to read! Reserve a ‘quiet place’ outside, whether it’s under a favorite tree or on a bench in a local park. Take along some favorite books and learn while enjoying the warm sunshine!

*Facts courtesy of www.literacytrust.org©


Spring Sports: Ready, Set, Play!

Every year, more than 58 million children nationwide join a team to play spring sports. Just like reading, getting involved in sports is also an excellent way for children to build friendships. It can teach kids valuable lessons, like sharing and teamwork, and that winning isn’t as important as having fun.

Where can you go to get involved in spring sports? Your school is a good place to start, but if their sports don’t continue past the time that school ends for the summer, you might want to check your neighborhood or local recreational boards for information on where to sign up. Or, ask a neighbor or friend who might already be involved in a sport.

What sports start their ‘season’ in the spring? Well, baseball and softball – as well as t-ball for the little ones – are very popular with kids! There’s also soccer, track and field, and more.

Don’t forget to practice and play sports safely, and make sure you brush up on your safety techniques before becoming part of a team. Even practicing sometimes leads to accidental injuries that can usually be prevented.

First things first – always have at least a small safety kit on hand. Most teams will usually have one handy, but for moms and dads, it never hurts to have one accessible. Make sure to have bandages for minor cuts and scrapes, ice packs for bumps and bruises, and antibiotic ointment. Because children’s skin can also be exposed to harmful UV rays while playing sports outdoors, be sure to have sunscreen available.

Dehydration is one of the leading on-field ailments for children. Usually, children do not want to stop playing a game to rest and re-hydrate. Kids, it’s important to keep your fluid levels up! Pack a water bottle, juice box or other beverage when leaving for an organized practice or game.

Above all else, remember that no matter what sport you play, a game is just a game! Don’t play just to win, and remember to always congratulate your team members and kids on the opposing team for a job well done. Not everyone can be a winner in every game, but you can be a winner just for being a ‘good sport’!

*Facts courtesy of Natural Products Marketplace©