In our parenting journey, my wife and I made a conscious decision to prioritize reading as a core element of our children’s development. As early as infancy we immersed the children in the magical world of books, fully aware of the impact it would have on their growth. Every night we’d both sit with them , my wife nursing and me with a book reading until they fell asleep. I can’t even count the number of times we read The Rainbow Fish, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus (my personal favorite).
We continued this through their early years until they were able to read, and it wasn’t too long before they were able. By the age of three they’d already grabbed their picture books and were flipping through the pages sounding out the words on the pages. Much of it was probably memorization of the stories having heard them so many times.
Despite the rote nature of their early reading, the habit itself was what mattered most. This daily ritual not only bolstered their language skills but also instilled a deep love for stories and learning. They would eagerly anticipate bedtime, not just for the comfort of the routine, but for the joy of exploring new adventures through books. It was heartwarming to see their excitement build as they unraveled the plots and characters that filled the pages.
As they grew, the simple picture books gave way to more complex stories. Their curiosity was boundless, and their imaginations knew no limits. We watched as their critical thinking skills developed alongside their empathy and understanding of the world. Books became a window to experiences far beyond our home, allowing them to walk in the shoes of diverse characters and navigate different challenges and triumphs.
This love for reading continued to flourish, shaping their academic performance and interpersonal relationships. They learned the value of patience from waiting for the next chapter, the importance of kindness from empathetic characters, and the courage to face difficulties from heroic tales. Each story reinforced the values we held dear, serving as a subtle yet powerful tool in their upbringing.
My decision to write children’s books was deeply influenced by these experiences. I wanted to create stories that could offer other children the same joy, inspiration, and lessons that my own children had gained. Through characters like Houdini the Hamster, I aimed to weave narratives that emphasized kindness, bravery, and the beauty of diversity.
For me, writing children’s books is not just about storytelling; it’s about contributing to the growth of young minds and hearts. It’s about crafting tales that leave a positive imprint, encouraging children to dream big and embrace the world with open hearts and minds. The magic of books lies in their ability to transport us, to teach us, and to inspire us, and it is a privilege to be part of that journey for so many young readers. 🐹✨
