Don’t get me wrong, I love family storytime with Tyler. But sometimes I feel like I just can’t read one more book, no matter how much he begs. But then again I want to instill the love of reading in him. So far it’s working. At times when I can’t read any more, I have an old standby– an audio book.
I remember when I was a kid, one of my favorite activities at school was going to the listening table, putting on those big old headphones and listening to stories read to me. I loved the turn the page signal and being able to follow along with the reader. I was excited to find audio books for kids on CD and tape for Tyler. I try to pick up at least two or three each week when I go to the library and Tyler has about a dozen of his own.
Besides giving my voice a break from reading (and re-reading) I have the option of listening to the book with Tyler or he can listen with his earphones on. I generally like to listen because, I have to admit, I enjoy the books just as much as Tyler does. I’ve also picked up a few DVD books from the library. These are great also. The story literally comes alive on your TV or computer screen.
Another thing we both love about the audio books is the way the narrators embellish the story with different voices and sound effects. Many also have music and multiple narrators. I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly was one we especially liked although we had already read the book.
As I said, you can get audio books from your local library. You can also find them at bookstores, thrift shops and library or garage sales. Don’t know where to start? Here are some of my favorites:
The Cat and the Hat and Other Dr. Seuss Favorites
See also:
Finding Books for Family Storytime