Reading From a Young Age

Starting from a very young age, it is important to encourage children’s independent reading. One of the classroom’s I have spent time in has a great mini-library in the classroom. There is a variety of levels so all the children can find something to read. The classroom library is a total focal area of the room. Not only was reading time centered largely on this area of the room, but other subjects in the class were as well. If there was a science lesson on the brain, the teacher made sure to pull out some of the reading books on the brain from this mini-library for the kids to have quick access to. The area is also inviting to children. It is next to a large window with many chairs around the books such as bean bag chairs, rocking chairs, and benches. There is also a large, paper tree covered with brightly colored paper leaves next to these chairs. It's very relaxing for the kids. This teacher also subscribes to Time Magazine for kids. There was a fabulous article for kids on the Gulf Oil Spill. Sadly, the day she did it was one of the days that I was at UWB in class. Still, she told me the kids loved it. Even though they are young (2nd graders), they are completely capable of learning about this massive subject that’s going on in their world. I strongly believe that for kids to want to be independent readers, they have to read about things that are relevant to their lives.