Congratulations!
This is my daughter's favorite word as a three year old. Whenever I ask her, "Why are you congratulating me?" She answers, "Because I love you!"
Now, while I would normally say, this is not exactly what we use the word for - another part of me thinks, you know...it's true. There's nothing that says she has to say she loves me - so I take it as genuine sentiment and she's choosing to say it out loud (she's little yet, as you know, so we'll see if this changes).
Both of your kid's trust in you is really nice and it's partially manifesting in their willingness to read books that you give them. So, why not read a book or two together?
For adults, this can be a very intimate experience and reading together creates lasting bonds.
So it really is a cause for celebration.
Here are some guiding questions to think about if you want to have a family book club.
This is my daughter's favorite word as a three year old. Whenever I ask her, "Why are you congratulating me?" She answers, "Because I love you!"
Now, while I would normally say, this is not exactly what we use the word for - another part of me thinks, you know...it's true. There's nothing that says she has to say she loves me - so I take it as genuine sentiment and she's choosing to say it out loud (she's little yet, as you know, so we'll see if this changes).
Both of your kid's trust in you is really nice and it's partially manifesting in their willingness to read books that you give them. So, why not read a book or two together?
For adults, this can be a very intimate experience and reading together creates lasting bonds.
So it really is a cause for celebration.
Here are some guiding questions to think about if you want to have a family book club.
What is it? What does family book club entail?
Family book clubs are a way for families to connect in a different way. It gives you and your kids the language to talk through tough topics, to learn to listen well to each other and to have fun. And, it happens when at least 2 of you read the same book on your own but at the same time.
Usually, you mutually decide on a book together, but sometimes one person can suggest a book and you both read it.
Almost all the Moms I've helped start book clubs with their kids use it as a way to have fun with a kid - not as a way to force reading or check comprehension. Those things happen naturally when it's set-up correctly.
Usually, you mutually decide on a book together, but sometimes one person can suggest a book and you both read it.
Almost all the Moms I've helped start book clubs with their kids use it as a way to have fun with a kid - not as a way to force reading or check comprehension. Those things happen naturally when it's set-up correctly.
Questions to think on for book club and if it's a right fit for you.
Structural Things to think About
Simple is best. Success is based on good structure and good norms, usually. Meetings are best when easily scheduled, consistent and timely. I find moms/kids find success in doing this quarterly - so 4 books per year. It feels like a breath of fresh air.
So, if this sounds like a possibility for you, think about the following:
- When will you meet to discuss the book? Would you go on a "book club date"?
- Where will you discuss? At home? Somewhere outside the house? Outside?
- Will you discuss at the end of the book? Check-in partway through? Something at the end of each chapter?
- Will you have good food as part of the discussion? (Kids are drawn to this, FYI)
- Will your meeting time be consistent and easy? Or will it change?
- Do you want to have a hands-on activity to go with the book for your discussion time? Some book clubs have art activities, some watch clips, write letters to the author, etc.
Mull it over. Think about how it could work with one or both older kids!