We live in an amazing time in history, but sometimes fail to take advantage. We can speak face to face, through video, across the world, for free. This assumes you have a computer with a web camera and fast enough internet, but many of us have the tools and fail to act. 

Make today the day you break through that invisible wall, sign up for a service like Skype, and talk with a relative. 

Our youngest likes this so much he often will choose it when he has free time. This is a great way to encourage reading as he can read a book long distance to his aunt (for example). Making connections, building relationships, extending language skills ... what a great way to learn!

Have you been longing for a little peace and quiet in your house? Are screens dominating the free time? When was the last time you had a chance to read a good book? Family reading time is a solution to so many problems we can’t list them all here. It does take discipline, largely on the part of the adults, to stop doing ‘everything we have to do’ and join in the reading for 15-30 minutes. It is amazing how much influence we have over our children, but our primary mode of influence is through modeling - thus the importance of reading at home at a time when kids can see it. Family reading time also leads to many conversations about the books as children see what adults read and adults see what the children read.

Some ways to make family reading time extra special are to stick to a routine (give it high value in scheduling), help your child choose books through conversation (but let your child own the choice), turn off distractions (screens, music, etc.), and show appreciation for both your children and your own opportunity to read. In other words, make it clear from your actions that family reading time matters - and that it can be a special time for everyone.