The Importance of Reading with Children in Mirrors
The following article was recently featured on the online resource for parents, ourfamilyworld.com.
The editors had asked me to write a summary of why parents thought reading books in mirrors with children was important.
I came up with a top three list. Here it is, in an extract from the article:
Reading books in mirrors:
1. Breaks the routine
2. Encourages laughter
3. Stimulates memory-making
1. Mirror Reading is a routine breaker.
Small changes in everyday lives create newness. We can forget to see the specialness of just being with little ones in quiet moments. Putting a fresh spin on a routine activity, like story time, offers an amazing opportunity to explore something new, yet familiar, with a child. It’s all about a change in point of view – for them and you.
Reading books in unusual places, like in closets wrapped in blankies, or in bathrooms, takes you into the known unknown together – easily and conveniently.
2. Gives kids, and you, chances to be silly
It’s inevitable with all the face-to-face action. When you read a regular book with a child, your eyes are down, focused on the page. In a big mirror, little ones can look at you from a different angle, observe your lips as you pronounce words, see your eyes widen in a smile, and watch your funny faces.
You may not realize what you look like when you speak in the squeaky voice of a character in a storybook. Here’s your chance! We can all use a bit more silly laughter in our lives.
3. Memories get made when we read eye-to-eye
What do we remember? Events that stand out – that are odd, and curious. Experiences that caught our eye, that make us look again with fascination. Special times with loved ones when we feel their gentle attention.
Reading eye-to-eye provides us with unique opportunities to connect with children in memorable ways. When we play with books in reflections, we can read with kids, not just to them. In these special moments of seeing, we grow bonds and positive memories that echo.
Reading reversed format books in reflections with children may sound strange – until you get a glimpse of the new perspective it brings.
Mirror Reading leads you into completely new experiences of playing with words, transforming tales into events, and truly interactive storytimes.
There are lots more exciting and educational reasons to explore backwards books in mirrors with children. Please visit the mirrorread.com for free stories and fun ideas. And to share your reasons for mirror reading.
Mirror Read Books are available in English and French, in paper and eBook versions on the mirrorread website.
The Mirror Read eBook comes for free with the MR App on iTunes.
