Any Reading Counts
by Stacey
I have had many parents ask the question, “That doesn’t count, does it?”
“My son reads magazines, but that doesn’t count, does it?”
“My husband reads the newspaper but that’s not enough of a reading model, is it?”
“Those graphic novels? Do those count?”
And I say over and over again, “Any reading counts.” Really. Any reading at all gives children exposure to unique vocabulary. Any reading helps children build their reading stamina. Any reading gives kids confidence that they can read.
That’s why I was happy to discover both of my girls reading this morning. Even if Katherine, age 4, was ‘reading’ my School Library Journal and Caroline, age 7, was reading her school directory. Because any reading counts.
I agree with you 100%. My sons read a variety of things, but my eight year old also really enjoys Calvin and Hobbes. I realize it’s a comic strip, but geez some of the words are really complicated. So, to me – it’s reading just the same as any of the full length MG novels he reads. Great post – glad to have found you on the comment challenge:)
Thanks for promoting this message. I have to repeat it constantly. Even the kids don’t buy it when we talk about, for instance, comics. I use the example of two kids who don’t read much but one only reads exactly what is assigned in school and the other reads that plus one silly comic book a week. Who do they think will have the better vocabulary, spelling, grammar and writing grades? Then they light up and realize that Hey! I could read THAT much (or little) and suddenly reading for fun isn’t that big of a deal.
Thanks,
Jim