The Joy Of Reading....

Happy Thursday!We are one day away from TGIF!! How many of you love to read? Reading is fundamental for evey area of your life. Whether it's reading for pleasure, introducing yourself to a new position, preparing for a school project or encouraging your child to read, it is necessary. Did you know that one in six adults struggles to read and reading difficulties in youth are very common? With so many electronic gadgets and electronic playing systems, reading falls short as being not only a development tool, but a fun, exciting experience.I love to read! Reading is very therapeutic and can be very entertaining. With all the social media gadgets, reading material can come right to your smartphone. However, I must say I am a book hoarder. I love to feel and touch the hard copy of a great book!If you are not reading regularly, you just may be missing out on a few benefits below:

• Stress Reduction. Reading a great book or magazine can easily distract the stress away to relaxing thoughts. There are many books offering learning, self-help or great entertainment and action. These books can clearly redirect your stress level in a positive way.

• Improved Focus. Reading allows you to focus on that specific read and the chaos of the world falls away. Reading a short passage in my Jesus Calling Devotional quickly helps me  jumpstart my day in a positive light.

• Free Entertainment. Every bookstore, library or iPad offers free reading without having to pullout your wallet for payment.. All you need to do is make time. Reading can be fun. Be careful when selecting reading material at night, you just may have dreams about it.

Reading benefits for children are:

• Development. Introducing the concept of reading helps develop a young child's brain. Their vocabulary is expanded and become very fluent readers. My son's teacher has now incorporated daily read of thirty minutes and weekend reading of one full hour. This is to ensure continued development of reading skills and to demonstrate that reading is also fun.

• Parent Bonding. The time you read with your child allows for bonding, excitement and joy. This creates a priceless experience;  surely to allow for many laughs. Becoming involved with your child in reading can be a fun experience; especially during the hustle and bustle of the day.

• Teach by Example. A child that is been read to will want to read as well. As parents, if a child witness you reading, they will become interested in the desire to read. Knowing how many habits children pick up, reading is one activity parents should aim for. Be the positive example your child see daily.

Happy Reading!Always SMILE...Sherill