This one is for the grownups.  Reading Magic: Why Reading Aloud to Our Children Will Change Their Lives Forever is written by Mem Fox, a best-selling children’s book author and literacy expert. The book illustrates how reading aloud to your kids can prepare and even teach them to read, improve their speaking skills, expand their vocabulary and (my favorite) strengthen the bond between parent and child. Mem Fox comments, “The time spent reading together provides clear evidence to a child of a parent’s love, care, and focused attention. And it gives the parent a chance to close off the rest of the world, relax, and connect with the child wonderfully.”

Summer is around the corner. Make reading together part of your summer plans. Schedule trips to the library or bookstore and browse our recommended books in our online bookstore. You can even email us for ideas and we will help you find books your kids will love! Work reading time into your plane trips, car ventures, and everyday activities.  We will provide fun, weekly activities to keep your summer moving  and your kids reading. Make a commitment to connect again with your kids this summer through books!

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New Year’s Resolution:  Teach the family to open a book and have a blast!

Steps:

1. Sign up to receive Book|Blasts by email.
2. Get a library card (if yours has expired).
3. Reacquaint yourselves with the children’s section of the library.
4. Actively participate in the OnceUponAGoodTime.com community – leave comments, tell your friends about us, and enjoy the Book|Blasts!

If your kids need a little extra persuasion, make your next visit to the library be to the Scottsdale Civic Center Library. Their children’s section is one of the coolest around. Prime the pump a little by reading Library Lion . . . you’ll be sure to have a roaring good time.

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