Summer Reading Program

Each summer I try, and I mean try, to structure my kids in what I call "Pioneer School". I orchestrate activities, chores, play days, reading, and school work to keep them entertained and on track so they aren't idle and bored for the summer. I think maybe they're even learning something, but they all deny it as I put them through my organized tactics.

It's traditional to participate in the county library reading program. Sam is 10 years old now. He recently saw the movie "The Indian in the Cupboard" and decided he wanted to read the book, which I was particularly pleased with. But when I mentioned signing up for the library reading program he didn't say much.
As I was driving in the car today, I told Sam we'd be going over to the library to sign up for their reading program and we'd pick up a calendar showing the activities he could participate in during the summer. Sam set in the seat next to me unmoved. I did a double take and could see there was no happy anticipation.

After a moment of thought he finally said, "I don't want to sign up for the library program."

I explained it was the same kind of program he's participated in before. You keep track of your reading for the summer and end up getting prizes for your good work. The activities they present are always fun, interesting, and promote reading on a variety of subjects and books.

My rah-rah library program speech was of little consequence. His attitude was obviously ho hum. He took a deep breath and finally said, "Every year, I end up making a house out of graham crackers, frosting, and candy." [He was referring to an annual activity during the Christmas holiday at the library. There was once enthusiasm about such things.] He added, "I think I'm getting too old for that."

What could I say? I didn't push it. I said, "I guess if you just read everyday on your own at home, we don't have to participate."

He seemed relieved as he took another deep breath and said "Okay."

But I had a touch of sadness go through me as I relinquished my request. I guess he's getting older. Or, I hate to say it, maybe he's more about video games. That's what his older siblings would say who were deprived of such things. Whatever! It's the end of another era. I've been going to the library and participating in their reading programs for the last 30 years - old habits die hard.

We'll still go to the library of course. He'll pick out DVDs and books. Thank goodness he hasn't thrown in the towel on that experience, but I'll miss the graham cracker house, bingo, the puppet shows, magic shows, and animal presentations, etc. Thank goodness I've got grand kids!

"Reading is to the mind

what exercise is to the body."

~ Joseph Addison ~

P.S. Sam read this post and made a point to tell me that he still liked puppet shows, magic shows, and animal presentations. Maybe we'll be participating in library programs more than I think. YEAH!