On Reading and Parenting

10. It takes a village to raise a child

    And so we come to the last talking point. I will say two things. First, what I presented above are “ideals”. In the real world, these ideals are tested. Often times, we commit epic failures. Well, that is part of learning. Therefore, admit that you, myself included, as parents, we need all the help we can get from members of the community. There are agencies and institutions who can help us raise readers and lifelong learners. Who are the people in your neighborhood? That is for you to find out!

    Second, let me end by recommending these books for your children. These are the winners of the 2016 National Children’s Book Awards as conferred by the National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the Philippine Board on Books for Young Readers. 

Caveat: these titles are starting points. Allow children and young adults to read non-fiction and subject area books also. Talk to your child’s teacher and consult your school’s librarian or librarian in the public library of your community.

 For emergent literacy, age 0-6: Dumaan si Butiki by Gigi Concepcion, illustrated by Ray Sunga (Adarna House, 2015)Haluhalby Eli Camacho (Adarna House, 2015) 

 For beginning readers, age 7-9: Mang Andoy's Signs by Mailin Paterno Locsin, illustrated by Isabel Roxas (Tahanan, 2015)SalusaloPara Kay Kuya by Ergoe Tinio, illustrated by JC Galang (Adarna House, 2015)

For middle grades, age 9-12: Supremo by Xi Zuq, illustrated by Al Estrella (Adarna House, 2015)

For Young Adult readers, age 13-18: Janus Silang at ang Tiyanak ng Tabon by Edgar Calabia Samar (Adarna House, 2014)

Despite our imperfections, let us strive to create a home where children feel valued. Let us work as a community in raising readers and lifelong learners. Let the children READ BOOKS!

 Sources:

Carandang, Ma. Lourdes and Quenna Lee-Chua. The Filipino Family Surviving the World, Anvil Publishing, 2008.

Fernandez, Karina Galang. Agenda for Hope Ideas for Inspiring the Youth: Connecting with today’s teens. ADMU Press, 2010.

Excerpt from Direct Instruction Reading, by D.W. Carnine, J. Silbert, E.J. Kame'enui, S. G. Tarver, 2004 edition, p. 13-15 . © ______ 2004.