YorickBrown
12-13-04, - 01:35 PM
Instead of buying seemingly mindless toys this Xmas, try these presents to promote a love for books.
By Cara Pitterman
Comfy Chair. Before your child opens a book, they'll need a place for cozy reading! Look for a cushy chair to put in a well-lit corner of their bedroom. Then they'll have a place separate from her desk to read her favorite books.
Boxed Set of Beloved Books. Does your child have a favorite series? Make sure they'll be able to read every word of the adventures by presenting them with a boxed set of books. Some sets, like Harry Potter, include every book. Others, like A Series of Unfortunate Events or Captain Underpants, come in various packs, allowing you to select the one that fits best in your child's home library.
Bookmark that Makes a Statement. A bookmark makes an ideal stocking stuffer. Bookstores now carry elaborate, character-decorated page-keepers, so choose one that features your child's favorite themes or friends.
Mug Filled with Hugs. What could be better than snuggling up with a good book and a mug of hot chocolate with marshmallows? Make reading an inviting experience this season with a personalized mug. Try one with an inscription such as his name, "Muggle's Mug," or "#1 Reader." Tip: When you wrap it up in your child's stocking, add a touch of sweetness by filling it with peppermints, Hershey Kisses or Hugs, or other treats.
Crafty Coloring Books. Coloring books are another form of storytelling. Your child can use crayons or markers to render what's going on in the picture, which nurtures imagination.
Word of the Day Calendar. Keep track of the date and improve vocabulary at the same time with a Word of the Day calendar. Another, newer option is a Magnetic Poetry calendar, which comes with a magnetic board and a word bank for creating poetry. Both foster a love for words, and in turn, reading.
Lighten Up with a Lamp. Brighten your child's holiday! Invest in a practical yet punchy reading light for his bedroom. You'll find a variety of inexpensive, fun lamps, with innovative designs or character themes, to choose from.
Magazine Subscription Surprise. Support your child's interests by giving a gift that will last for a whole year: a subscription to a magazine. With so many publications available on everything from sports, nature, fashion, current events, and more, it'll be a snap to find one that they'll look forward to every month.
Personalized Journal or Diary. Add a fun writing pen, and unlock your child's imagination. Journals encourage personal writing and doodling, and help develop ideas and opinions. Plus, the more your child writes, the more they'll want to read!
Boredom-Busting Activity Books. Exercise your child's brain with crossword puzzles, word finds, and MadLibs. They'll improve spelling, vocabulary, and interest in exploring books!
By Cara Pitterman
Comfy Chair. Before your child opens a book, they'll need a place for cozy reading! Look for a cushy chair to put in a well-lit corner of their bedroom. Then they'll have a place separate from her desk to read her favorite books.
Boxed Set of Beloved Books. Does your child have a favorite series? Make sure they'll be able to read every word of the adventures by presenting them with a boxed set of books. Some sets, like Harry Potter, include every book. Others, like A Series of Unfortunate Events or Captain Underpants, come in various packs, allowing you to select the one that fits best in your child's home library.
Bookmark that Makes a Statement. A bookmark makes an ideal stocking stuffer. Bookstores now carry elaborate, character-decorated page-keepers, so choose one that features your child's favorite themes or friends.
Mug Filled with Hugs. What could be better than snuggling up with a good book and a mug of hot chocolate with marshmallows? Make reading an inviting experience this season with a personalized mug. Try one with an inscription such as his name, "Muggle's Mug," or "#1 Reader." Tip: When you wrap it up in your child's stocking, add a touch of sweetness by filling it with peppermints, Hershey Kisses or Hugs, or other treats.
Crafty Coloring Books. Coloring books are another form of storytelling. Your child can use crayons or markers to render what's going on in the picture, which nurtures imagination.
Word of the Day Calendar. Keep track of the date and improve vocabulary at the same time with a Word of the Day calendar. Another, newer option is a Magnetic Poetry calendar, which comes with a magnetic board and a word bank for creating poetry. Both foster a love for words, and in turn, reading.
Lighten Up with a Lamp. Brighten your child's holiday! Invest in a practical yet punchy reading light for his bedroom. You'll find a variety of inexpensive, fun lamps, with innovative designs or character themes, to choose from.
Magazine Subscription Surprise. Support your child's interests by giving a gift that will last for a whole year: a subscription to a magazine. With so many publications available on everything from sports, nature, fashion, current events, and more, it'll be a snap to find one that they'll look forward to every month.
Personalized Journal or Diary. Add a fun writing pen, and unlock your child's imagination. Journals encourage personal writing and doodling, and help develop ideas and opinions. Plus, the more your child writes, the more they'll want to read!
Boredom-Busting Activity Books. Exercise your child's brain with crossword puzzles, word finds, and MadLibs. They'll improve spelling, vocabulary, and interest in exploring books!