Library Happenings

Henning School

In a world where technology often competes for children’s attention, we need to be reminded of the immeasurable value of reading with children. While children may be drawn to screens, the experience of sharing a book creates a powerful bond and opens doors to learning in ways that go beyond passive entertainment. One of the most immediate benefits of reading with your child is the emotional connection it creates. As you sit down together with a book, you’re sharing a special moment. This time becomes an opportunity for closeness, for conversations, and for laughter. Children thrive on this kind of attention, and it helps them feel loved and secure. 

I am so blessed to be able to see every elementary student each week as we read stories in the library. They hear words that they don’t know what they mean and they are not afraid to ask about them. We read stories that are interesting and if we start a book and it does not seem to hold their interest, we learn that it is okay to put it back on the shelf and choose a different book.

Books open the door to limitless worlds where children can explore fantasy lands, engage with quirky characters, and solve exciting problems. This stimulates their imagination, encouraging them to think creatively. Whether it’s imagining the lives of animals or designing their own dream worlds, reading allows children to think outside the box and develop problem-solving skills.

During parent-teacher conferences I heard the story of a dad who made it his goal to read each of the books to his son that are on the son’s reading shelf at home. Once the book is read, the dad puts it into a special bin and goes on to the next book. What a wonderful idea. 

Reading is an active process that engages a child’s brain in multiple ways. As they follow a storyline, they learn to remember characters, predict outcomes, and draw conclusions based on the information provided. These cognitive skills lay the groundwork for future academic success. Critical thinking, comprehension, and memory—all developed through reading—are essential skills for learning.

Additionally, reading improves a child’s focus and attention span. While modern technology often provides instant gratification in the form of entertainment, books require patience and sustained concentration, which help children build important cognitive endurance.

In a world that’s increasingly fast-paced and screen-driven, reading with your child is an investment in their intellectual, emotional, and social development. It’s one of the simplest yet most powerful things you can do to help your child grow, succeed, and thrive. So, pick up a book, sit down together, and enjoy the magic of reading. Your child—and your relationship—will thank you for it.

Our public and school library has 24,000 books within its walls. We are open every weekday and your access can be through our district office doors. We are also open two afternoons a week on Tuesday and Thursday from 3:30-5:30pm. Come on up and check us out.