Did you know that drawing and writing are early indicators of a love of reading? This is one of the concepts that Dr. Gentry introduces in his book, Raising Confident Readers. More than a tool for success in school, reading is a wonderful way for parents to bond with their kids. Going hand in hand with reading are exercises for writing and drawing that are sure to stimulate a child’s imagination.

I got hold of this book immediately after reading some of the benefits listed at the back cover:
•    learn why encouraging drawing and scribbling is as essential as reading aloud;
•    best at-home activities to develop literacy early, naturally, and joyfully;
•    recommended children’s books for each phase; and
•    strategies for overcoming delayed reading and other challenges.

That packed a punch for me. Because I’m a book lover, I really just want to encourage my preschooler (Badger is four years old) to love reading, too.


Know What Reading Phase Your Child Is In
The book helped me find out what reading phase my son was in through this section called a Monster Spelling Test (I won’t reveal what this is and spoil your fun). I got to see how my son corresponded to the test results and how his previous attempts at writing matched perfectly with some of the examples in the book!

It was really amazing for me to see how my son has grown as a reader by the kind of scribbling he has done in the past. I never saw that these two activities were very closely connected.

Click here to read more about "Raising Confident Readers."