Access to Great Writing

A discussion came up the other day on when parents should stop reading to their children. Surely at a certain point, if kids can read then they don't need parents to do it for them? They can just pick age appropriate texts and off the go...

I have to disagree. Yes, kids should have plenty of opportunities to read by themselves. However, by not reading to them as they reach eight, nine, ten or more, we are locking them out of great stories and amazing writing that can both fuel their creativity, their writing skills and their own development of philosophy. Reading allows the parent to pause, to check on understanding, to explain usage, to probe for implications. It's compost for the brain. And what do kids get out of it? Some real excitement. The amazement of horizons broadened. The enchantment of tone, emphasis and pauses. And quite frankly, it's a great bonding opportunity in our busy lives.

The Chrysalids

This novel uses formal language and a fair bit of telling, but the story is powerful, confronting and approachable — if read aloud. I am a real fan of John Wyndham's works and feel he has been overlooked in the modern age. You want something to base a Netflix show on? This would be perfect source material. 

Maybe we should all be reading to each other, adults, children and infants and crones.

— R Max Tillsley

Worn, but not worn out.