There is nothing like a good book with children

This past week, I had the opportunity to attend a reading event at my oldest son’s elementary school.

For family reading night, students in the school were invited to come to the school for an hour to read books, drink hot apple cider and eat a cookie. Those attending were also encouraged to wear pajamas and bring a blanket or favorite stuffed animal.

I passed on the pajamas and blanket, but both of my sons were excited to wear their pajamas to school.

Once I arrived with my oldest son, Matthew, 5, and youngest son, John, 3, I didn’t know what to expect.

The event was well organized and as soon as we entered the school we were told to head to the gym, which is connected to the cafeteria.

Upon entering the gym, I took in the surroundings. There were already families with blankets spread out on the floor reading books to each other. Sometimes the children were reading; and in other cases the parents were reading. In the cafeteria area were a whole bunch of books spread out. There was also a small table with the thickest chocolate chip cookies I had ever seen and warm apple cider.

I thought for sure my boys would head straight for the cookies, but to my surprise they were more excited about the books. That’s right. They were more interested in the nice books than the sweet treats.

Soon they each had a book in their hand ready and eager for me to read to them. Before we found our place in the corner of the gym, I made sure the boys each grabbed a cookie, while I carried their apple ciders. I am sad to say that I did not get a cookie of my own -- which is probably my only regret of that evening. However, John was willing to give me a couple of bites.

As we read our books together, the boys got excited. They just wanted me to keep reading more and more. I think if I would have let them, we may have read all of those books, which could have taken us a week. I noticed other families were experiencing the same thing. I think I ended up reading at least eight books, and that doesn’t count the five books my son brought home for his homework.

What my kids liked most about the event, was the fact that they got to pick out a book to take home. It was sort of a read it, like it, and take it sort of a deal. My oldest son picked a book about volcanoes, while my youngest choose one about various cars.

Some of my fondest memories growing up are of my mom reading to my sister and I while she rocked us in a rocking chair. I may not be able to recall what she was reading to me now, but I bet I was pretty interested then. It’s events like this one that may change a child’s view on reading. If it is fun and entertaining to them, maybe they will continue reading into their adulthood.

The event went over really well in my opinion; and if the school hosts another one, my kids and I will probably go.