Get Caught Reading

May is officially Get Caught Reading month, a nationwide campaign to remind people of all ages how important and how much fun it is to read. While the organization supporting the campaign, the Association of American Publishers (AAP), undoubtedly has ulterior motives for promoting literacy, like selling books, there is no doubt that this endeavor is a win-win for all involved. The many benefits of reading, especially for children, are indisputable. From stimulating their brain and imagination, to increasing their vocabulary. As the saying goes, reading is to the mind, what exercise is to the body.

The benefits aren't just for children. What's better than leaving all of your stress and worries behind for a couple of hours; travelling to a far off land for a magical adventure, or falling in love with a handsome prince, knowing that 10 times out of 10 it will end with a "and they lived happily ever after." Better yet, read a non-fiction and walk in someone's elses shoes, if only figuratively, and experience their heartache, struggles, triumphs or losses and learn a little empathy to boot. Books are like little magic carpet rides. A little bit of magic that you can take anywhere with you, to bring you joy if you're sad, excitement if you're bored, or maybe just to be a friendly companion if you're lonely.

Children are made readers on the laps of their parents. So read to your child, and foster his/her imagination and curiosity. Read whether you're 5, 40 or 90; read and let your imagination run wild.