Enjoyment and love of reading starts from day one. Parents who read to infants in their arms start the journey. International studies show that students with a more positive attitude toward reading tend to be more successful in all academic areas.
 
Developing the reading-before-lights-out habit brings results. Ask the parent who tries to skip a paragraph or page – that drowsy child will pick up on it right now!
 
Browse the shelves of Onoway Public Library. New books for all ages are continually being added to the collection. Wordless books are special fun because you tell the story by reading the illustrations. Try Red Sled by Lita Judge. You’ll have fun creating the noises in this one!
 
For the beginning reader, don’t missI want my Hat back by John Klassen. It’s a not-so-subtle mystery, perfectly illustrated.
 
The picture book format of And the Soldiers sang  by J. Patrick Lewis illustrated by Gary Kelly belies its cross-generational appeal. Christmas in the trenches in 1914 is presented through haunting illustrations and just enough text to make young people think about that historic Christmas and its context.
 
Encouraging young children to read by reading to and with them is a New Year’s Resolution that easily becomes a comfortable habit.