Saying no and setting limits is one of the most important things we do as parents. No parent wants to be accused of spoiling their child.<\/p>\n
For every rule, however, there is an exception. In this case, it\u2019s books. Spoiling a child with books is the one of those situations when saying yes is better than no. The benefits of reading are simply too many not to give children access to as many books as possible.<\/p>\n
Rather than spoil a child, an abundance of age-appropriate books encourages children to develop self-discipline and a strong moral code. A steady stream of electronic media doesn\u2019t always provide good examples of either\u2014would you want your child basing his decisions on the actions of most video game characters? Even children\u2019s media where characters act well rarely go into depth on why good behavior and a code of conduct are important.<\/p>\n
Books, however, take the time to explore such abstract consequences properly. Deeds and thoughts can be thoroughly explored\u2014as well as the consequences of each character\u2019s actions. Books provide the good examples sadly missing in most other entertainment.<\/p>\n
Other Benefits of Reading<\/strong><\/p>\n Molding your child\u2019s emerging sense of right and wrong isn\u2019t the only reason to spoil her with books. The benefits of reading are well-researched and start to be seen even before the child can read himself. When you read together:<\/p>\n Children whose parents read to them early in life tend to do better in all areas of academics and develop both logical and abstract thinking skills faster. Once the child can read to herself, benefits of reading include improved concentration and memory, improved creativity, and an active imagination. Reading also reduces stress and anxiety and has been linked to increased self-esteem in children.<\/p>\n\n