Reading to Kids

Adam Grant mentions several papers on how reading regularly to children improves parenting skills, reduces stress, and builds lasting bonds.. As a father of three kids, I totally agree.

There are some challenges, however. Finding the right time is not easy. Reading before going to bed was once the obvious option, but now each kid wants their own reading time with mom or dad.

Another challenge is finding books and authors that engage them. Sometimes we read what I suggest, other times I've got to compromise and read books the kids suggest. Even books that I wouldn't have even considered buying some years ago...

Audiobooks are fine, but it's not the same as reading. At least in my experience, it doesn't build those "lasting bonds" Grant writes about.

Finally, electronic devices are strong competitors to reading time. Even with the best intentions, it's difficult to propose reading a book when your kid is playing an online session of Brawl Stars. What can work here is having a regular scheduled time for reading.

Of course, it's difficult to enjoy reading to your kids if you don't like to read in the first place.