Celebrating National Reading Month 2019

by | Mar 26, 2019 | Family

I never realized the importance of reading and literature until I became a mom.

Suddenly, National Reading Month was something about which I cared immensely. Reading is the basis of education. Reading with and to our children is one of the best ways to not only spend quality time but also influence their education. Kids who are skilled readers become more successful students. So naturally I wanted to do my part. Every March is National Reading Month. I jumped at the opportunity to volunteer in Roman’s classroom at Sacred Heart as did many other parents. Each day, a different parent came in to read and play.

First, I decorated his classroom door with superhero-themed artwork; I wanted to inspire the kids to be strong and fierce…and get excited about being in school every day! I returned the next morning and first handed out superhero capes for all the kids to wear. (Cuteness overload!) I read them a few children’s books, hugged them all, and played a few games. It was so much fun! Roman beamed with pride that his mama was there, tugging on my leg, not wanting me to leave. I’d do anything to make him happy and proud!

Wanting to do even more, I collaborated with Starfish Family Services to read to students in Detroit. (I’ve worked with Starfish a ton over the years, and absolutely love all the work they do for families and kids.) I extended the invitation to my girlfriends, and 5 of us went downtown, bringing a car full of books, coloring books, and crayons. The kids lit up with excitement!

We each were assigned a different classroom and spent an hour reading books, singing songs, and playing games. The kids had a blast, ages 3-5.

Though National Reading Month is in March, I plan to continue pushing the importance of reading and getting more involved in the community to ensure these little minds are developing as best they can!

What can you do in your community to get involved in classrooms and make education more fun?