The Value of Written Word – Chronicle Books

Reading can be both the most rewarding of experiences as well as one of the most frustrating when learning at the same time.  When people are first learning to read, no matter what the age, it can seem like an unattainable goal.  This can be awkward at best, but the “Ah-ha!” moment is absolutely wonderful to witness.  Recently Little Man had this moment and it was crazy to see the light in his eyes glow bright as he realized how much power reading and spelling had.

As usual my wife and I were trying to convey a secret message via spelling the words out across the room as Little Man was there  about some possibilities for dinner.  These conversations usually involve a lot of spelling.  Dad saying, “Whats for d-i-n-n-e-r?”  Mom replying, ” He wants p-i-z-z-a”. At this point there would be some thought or discussion between adults but instead Little Man inserts a, “YEAH I WANT PIZZA!”  To which Dad replies with an open mouth and Mom replies with a cry of happiness. Little Man literally jumps for joy and says, “I can read!! Pizza! Pizza! Pizza!”  Mom and Dad were both very proud of him and have been hoping for this spark of realization for a long time.  So this event was very fulfilling for all involved, especially Little Man.  Of course Little Man got his wish and pizza was soon ordered.
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