Give kids a book for Christmas, health unit urges

Peterborough Public Health is urging parents to give their children the gift of a book this holiday season in an initiative called A Book on Every Bed.

The goal of the campaign is to improve children’s reading and speech skills and celebrate the benefits of reading.

“Books may seem old-fashioned,” said Leisa Baker, a public health nurse with Peterborough Public Health, “but they are a great way to unplug from electronic devices.”

Although the popularity in reading has not lowered significantly, literacy rates have, she said.

In Ontario alone, 1.3 million citizens struggle with serious literacy problems. Peterborough Public Health believes the best way to diminish possible future issues is to start with young children now.

“Reading supports a child’s speech and language skills which are critical to a future success in life,” Baker said. “Public Health’s priority is prevention.”

The simple act of purchasing a child a book for Christmas has the ability to make a large difference in their learning behaviour when they are older.

A book does not only positively influence a child’s learning ability, but their sleeping habits. “Screen time before bed is not a good idea,” said Baker, “the light is bad at night time when a child is trying to fall asleep.”

Children’s sleep has a serious influence on their ability and aptitude to learn. “Some parents like to give their child their book the night before the holiday so that they can enjoy it right before bed.”

For families who cannot afford books this season, Peterborough Public Health advises that parents borrow books from the library for free. Peterborough Public Health is also donating books through the local pre-school programs.

“Getting a child to read is the best gift you can give them,” Baker said.

One of the most important parts of giving the book is choosing one that will appeal to the child. Peterborough Public Health reminds parents that the child’s abilities and needs should be taken into consideration. For toddlers, it is suggested that purchasing a novel that has rhyming patterns, illustrated pictures, and interactive features would be more beneficial for them.

For older children, a novel with an exciting plot will grab their attention and inspire them to read more. “Selecting books that is age appropriate and appealing to a child’s own interest makes it more likely to be picked up and enjoyed,” Baker said.

The Book on Every Bed Campaign began several years ago in New York in an attempt to increase the value of a book and foster learning among children. It was picked up by Peterborough Public Health last year.

For more information on the Book on Every Bed Campaign, visit www. familyreading.org or call 705-7431000.