Family Time

8 Compelling Reasons to Read to Your Child

As parents we are constantly battling the clock. There just doesn’t seem to be enough hours in the day to get everything done. Our lives are full and it seems like we never check everything off of our to do list. So you may think adding one more item to your already busy schedule is unrealistic. Red Apple Reading would like to offer 8 compelling reasons why you should be reading aloud to your child daily (yes, even if they are already reading independently!).

By Jennifer Campbell, ago
April camping indoors pic

April and May Showers Bring Indoor Wow-ers

What’s there to do while waiting for nicer weather to come? While some people think there’s not much to do when it’s raining or cold outside, there are actually countless fun activities families can do together to make the most of any stormy day. Enjoy these five favorites.

By Carley Logue, ago
Red Apple Reading post: Sensory Play and the Young Child

Sensory Play and the Young Child

Even as infants our children are learning. Have you ever tried to read your baby a book only to have her stick it in her mouth and chew on it? She is experiencing her world orally. As your baby grows into a toddler and then a preschooler, her experiences may become more sophisticated, but she is still learning through her senses. Parents can help their toddler and preschool children develop and learn by providing simple sensory experiences for them to enjoy.

By Jennifer Campbell, ago

Spring Homework Help!

Now that the holidays are over and spring is just around the corner, children are beginning to realize that the end of the school year is in sight. While it is exciting to be fully in the swing of the second half of the school season, sometimes the energy and passion that were previously devoted to homework begin to diminish. How can parents help a child who is having a hard time with their homework or just experiencing a homework slump? Red Apple Reading has some suggestions for parents who want to help their children finish the homework race on top.

By Jennifer Campbell, ago

10 Tips to Promote Literacy at Home

Did you know that September is National Literacy Month? Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines literacy as, “the ability to read and write”. The definition may be simple, but the effects of being literate are huge! To a great extent, a person’s literacy determines how successful they will be as well as how easily they are able to navigate the details of everyday life. As parents we want our children to experience this type of success. How can we promote literacy in our homes? Red Apple Reading has some tips for how you can help nurture the growth of literacy in your little one!

By Jennifer Campbell, ago

Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall!

Although fall officially begins on September 23 each year, for most of us, Labor Day signals the end of summer and the unofficial beginning of fall. While it is sad to say goodbye to the lazy days of summer, let’s keep in mind all of the great things we will be saying hello to! This Labor Day weekend let’s anticipate all the wonderful fall fun that lies around the corner

By Jennifer Campbell, ago

How to Help Older Children Choose Reading Material

Would your child rather visit the dentist than pick up a book? It can be challenging for parents to find reading material that captures their children’s attention – especially older children! I have four kids and their reading interests are as varied as their personalities! My youngest is a question generator. He enjoys non-fiction books that get to the bottom of his inquiries. My 11 year old has trouble completing chapter books but loves comic book style reads such as Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Big Nate. My 14 year old loves fantasy and historical fiction while my 17 year old enjoys the dystopic genre of books. All kids are different and with a little effort you can help yours discover enjoyable reading material. Red Apple Reading has a few suggestions to get you started!

By Jennifer Campbell, ago

Make Learning Fun at Home!

Everyone wants their kids to experience success in life. An important part of parenting is making sure that our little ones develop the skills necessary to be fully literate. You don’t have to have a teaching degree in order to help your kiddo learn. In fact, the primary way that young children learn is through play! Check out these ideas on how you can make learning fun at home

By Jennifer Campbell, ago