Studies have found that children who live in homes that value books and the written word learn to read more easily and at a younger age than children whose families do not put value into books.  The U.S. Department of Education said in their report, Strong Families, Strong Schools, that the single most important parental activity for young children’s eventual successes in reading is reading aloud to young children (1994).  Just 15 minutes a day can build a child’s vocabulary and their ability to speak in full sentences. 15 minutes per day to enjoy a good story or two in a comfortable setting. 

Positive literacy experiences will affect your child for life.  Studies have found that future educational opportunities and career choices are directly related to a person’s literacy ability.  15 minutes a day to invest into your child’s future.  15 minutes a day to help ensure that your child will get the literacy advantage that he or she deserves.

Even if you are not a lover of reading, get some reading materials into your home and your child’s life.  There are magazines for almost every interest and the news can be easily obtained on the computer screen.  The library is FREE and has books on thousands of subjects and interests.  Write a family member, send an email, and make lists.  All of these kinds of early exposure to reading and writing will help your child want to become a reader and writer.  And most importantly, make a routine that includes 15 minutes of book sharing daily.  Find a quiet place and snuggle down with your child and look through, talk about, or read books together.  15 minutes per day of positive book time with your child.  15 minutes per day.