Since you obviously know that I believe in reading as a core value, I wanted to share with you a program that is exciting to get children off to the right start in this activity.
Take Time to Read is a program that is a joint partnership between the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and the Masonic Grand Lodge of Texas. It is a great investment that gives these organizations the opportunity to demonstrate their care for the future of Texas children. Since the program’s inception, both organizations have worked together to develop and distribute promotional materials at no charge.
Many Scottish Rite members go directly into Texas public schools on a regular basis and read to children in the classrooms. The activities are coordinated by a special committee authorized by the Masonic Grand Lodge of Texas.
I thought you might be interested in reading this information about the program that I pulled directly from the web site of the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, which is located just southwest of downtown Dallas on Maple Avenue.
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Reading experts agree that reading aloud to children may be one of the most important activities adults can do to prepare children for success in school. Reading aloud for as little as 10-20 minutes each day can provide tremendous benefits in helping children develop a better understanding and appreciation of language.
Benefits of Reading to Children Include:
- Encouraging children’s imagination and inspiring creativity
- Helping children develop good listening skills and expand their attention span
- Preparing children for success in school
- Helping children develop critical thinking skills
- Creating a bond between adult and child
Tips for Reading to Children:
- Take time to read to your child every day for at least 10 minutes.
- Establish a regular reading time.
- Make sure your special reading time isn’t interrupted. Your undivided attention is important to your child.
- Guide your child’s reading selection by choosing a variety of books you find appropriate. Allow your child to choose from this group.
- Talk about what you’re reading. Discuss the story to make sure your child understands the story and the words in the book.
For more information, please contact the Luke Waites Center for Dyslexia at (214) 559-7800 or (800) 421-1121, ext. 7800, or e-mail taketimetoread@tsrh.org.
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