Picture books are windows to real and imaginary worlds, and I believe that they are the keys to unlocking the doors of literacy, global awareness, self-understanding, and peace. That's why I find it deeply disturbing that many parents and teachers feel that they simply don't have time to read them to children anymore.
I was so happy to find that Anthony Browne: U.K.'s Newest Children's Laureate will focus on picture books, because he feels that they "have been marginalized in recent years in the U.K." I have news for you, Mr. Browne: parents and teachers in the USA do not value them nearly as much as they should, either.
I think people try to rush children away from picture books because they think that the illustrations are a distraction when they're learning to read. It's simply not true! If anything, when children look at pictures while they read, it helps them to relate to and understand the material better. Not only that, but pictures are fun to look at, and make reading a more enjoyable experience. If we don't want reading to seem like work, then we shouldn't take away those pictures!
Children and adults of all ages love to look at illustrations and photographs in all kinds of books. Just think about how popular graphic novels are becoming.
With museum-quality illustrations, advanced vocabulary, and beautiful writing, picture books have come a long way. They certainly are not just for babies anymore.
So, if we want our children to love reading and learning, let's not be so quick to close the door on picture books! I truly believe they are the key not only to literacy, but to a better world for all of us.
Here are some other related posts you might have missed:
You can also find some other related posts in the Raising Readers category, as well as in some of the other categories in my sidebar.
Please feel free to answer any of the following questions:
- Who likes to read picture books in your family?
- What types of picture books does your child like to read?
- When do you read aloud to your child?
- Where do you and your child like to read together?
- Why do you read aloud picture books to your child?
We'd love to hear from you...
Have a great week!