Making Books with Children

I am a strong advocate for developing and encouraging literacy in children. Reading is the most fundamental part of learning, so it is a skill every child should master.

In this age of TV, computer and video entertainment, books seem to fall by the wayside. Fewer and fewer children enjoy the thrill of picking up a good book.

As parents and educators, we need to find ways to inspire kids to read. One great way of doing that is to teach children how to make their own books.

Bookmaking develops many rudimentary cognitive and learning skills.

Children learn order and classification by assigning page numbers and grouping information into a table of contents, chapters, glossary, and index.

Spatial skills are developed by working in three dimensions.

Art concepts are reinforced through design, color, choice of font, page layout, cover art and use of illustrations.

Children learn to plan and present concepts in a logical fashion and to hone their ability to be clear and descriptive in presenting ideas.

They express their personality and creativity by creating a book that is uniquely their own.

Books can be easily adapted to the age level and interests of the child. Toddlers would enjoy making a book that is tactile with bright colors, and a variety of textures, sizes and shapes. Older children may prefer to craft their book on a computer to import more sophisticated images or to add animation, sound or video.

The possibilities are endless! Why not have some fun and give it a try?