Story Time

If you read any of the mommy blogs or research websites you will hear how important reading is to your child. Reading aloud helps children acquire early language skills. Reading aloud helps children develop positive association with books and reading. Reading aloud helps children build a stronger foundation for school success.

I agree with all of that.

But I think more than anything, reading to my kids every night has helped develop a stronger relationship between us. As they grow older with every passing day, they are on the move—playing, running, and constantly exploring their environment. I too am busy running here and there, taking late calls and messaging people throughout my day.

Snuggling up with a book lets the three of us slow down and recapture that sweet, cuddly time I enjoyed so much when they were babies. There are some nights when they pull out the mother of all long books and for a split second I have to remind myself that this time is not a chore or a task. Reading is that nurturing activity that brings us closer together. The close to our day. The final way to wrap my arms around them and fill their ears with the sound of my voice before they drift off to sleep.

It is the one routine I love the most in my crazy, windy life.