Authentic learning can’t start too young. Exposing children to books and reading should start the day they are born. As they grow, let them explore and enjoy books that interest them, on their level.
Having a rich reading environment for children is hugely important. Not only having lots of high interest reading material available, but having care-givers that model reading as well.
And remember, reading is reading. It doesn’t need to be Shakespeare for a child to grow as a reader. I am a voracious reader, mostly sci-fi. I don’t believe I would be the reader I am without sci-fi. No offense to the Great Bard, but not my cup of English tea. I’ve been reading sci-fi since I was old enough to hold a book. And now I write it!
And yep – that is my book, Tex the Explorer: Journey to Mars. And yep – it is upside down! (Authentic Exploration)
The Educational Journey 