4th Annual Dallas International Book Fair

A couple of weeks ago I read a newspaper article about a study of families of children who are successful in school. They found a strong correlation between homes filled with books and success in school. Children who grew up in houses lined with bookcases full of books were 30% more succesful in schools and careers.

Now one should always be careful drawing conclusions from correlations, because they don't tell you what is cause and what is effect. Still the study is intriguing. The houses I lived in were always teeming with books and my parents used them. My mom read to us a lot and my sisters and I became comfortable with them at an early age. All three of us now have advanced degrees and have interesting professional occupations. There is something stimulating about growing up in an environment full of books, where you can run your fingers over the spines and pull out the tomes that allure you.

Based on my experience, then (for what it's worth), the study I mentioned, and other studies and programs, here is a preliminary list of ways to turn your kids into readers.

1. Be a reader yourself.
2. Fill your house with books. E-readers are fine, but they won't really have the same effect as a wall with rows of books.
3. Read to your kids from the time they can focus on illustrations in children's books and for as many years as they are willing to be read to.
4. Take your kids to the library and to bookstores. They make great free outings and offer something for all ages.
5. Always be willing to read new books.
6. Buy your kids books for birthdays and other occasions. Not always books, mind you! Sometimes.
7. Go to a major book fair with the family. If you live in the metroplex, be sure to go to the 5th Dallas International Book Fair in October. This is not just a children's event, although there is a lot for them. It is a Festival of Reading for All Ages.