Resources for Families

We all want our children to feel safe and secure. When families are going through stressful times, when they experience a perceived threat of danger, when they are practicing social distancing and must remain in their homes, children look to their parents and caregivers to help them feel loved and protected. Reading aloud to your child is one way to help your family through difficult times.

• You are giving your child undivided attention. When you read aloud, whatever else may be going on in the world, you are concentrating all your attention on your child, on the book, and the story. Your child will understand this and feel reassured.
• You are giving your child physical contact and affection. Take your child on your lap or lean against one another. Make reading time a moment for hugging and cuddling. The combination of your voice and your hug will help your child feel loved and secure.
• You are providing a routine. Read a story at bedtime will help your child feel that the day has a predictable schedule, even in unpredictable times, and give your child something to look forward to.
• You are providing entertainment. Read books that make your child laugh, books that make your child eager to turn the page and find out what happens next.
• You are giving your child a sense of Security. Even when the world is full of scary questions, a young child can find some security in a parent’s voice and a parent’s embrace.
• You are showing your child how much you love them. Reading aloud is a way to show your child, every day, how much you care, and how important it is to you to spend time together. It’s a way to hold your child close and help your child feel loved and protected.