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When I was a kid I would read all the time. I remember getting the first Harry Potter book for Christmas one year and having it almost finished by Christmas dinner. As an adult now, I can't tell you the last time I read a complete book. I actually think it was The Time Traveler's Wife, which is much longer ago than it should have been.

I received a box of books from Scholastic with information about their 20 for 20 Family Reading Challenge. I am so excited to be starting this challenge with my family. We spend way too much time staring at screens and not enough reading. And yes, I'm the most guilty party with the screens, but it's a hard line to walk when your job involves the internet.

Every night before bed, Charlie has a story read to him of his choosing. This year for Christmas, I made sure I gave Charlie a few new chapter books with the intent to start reading aloud to him even more. Those chapter books I bought had not been started until last night. We successfully started our first book from the Geronimo Stilton series. Reading a longer chapter book is something I am really excited about. Following a longer story and remember what's happening over several days is a big step for little ones.

Most of us know how important reading is and its long-term value to our children’s success in school and in life. But on the list of priorities families face each day, reading together sometimes falls to the bottom. No matter how old children become, your involvement in their reading can:

• Inspire them
• Influence their behaviors
• Affect their thoughts
• Strengthen their bond with you

I challenge you get your family together and join us for the 20 for 20 Family Reading Challenge. Let your kids pick out a few new books and dive right in! You can take the pledge and print a reading log for you to keep track of your 20 minutes of reading every day for 20 days!

Reading Tips

• Allow your children to choose the book or books to read.
• Visit the Scholastic Book Fair together to explore and choose from a wide variety  of interests and reading levels.
• Read at your child’s pace.
• Take your time and really engage in reading together – discuss the story, characters, plot, events, etc.
• Unplug and shut off electronic devices to really focus on the moment.
• When you and your child complete a chapter or book, take time to reward yourselves.
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Along the way, we'll be sharing some of our experiences while doing our 20 for 20 Family Reading Challenge. If you're taking the challenge with me, comment below and let me know how you're doing!