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Health unit encouraging including books in Christmas gifts this year

While you are doing your Christmas shopping, the health unit is encouraging you to think about books.

The health unit explains that although books may seem old-fashioned, books can be a great gift. Shelley Shaughnessy, a Public Health Nurse with the HKPR, says  “reading together allows family members to bond together, explore new literary worlds and acquire a love of language. Books are valuable because they can support a child’s communication skills that are critical for future success at school and in life.”

Shaughnessy says children’s brains “are like sponges,” she adds that reading with children will help stimulate speech and language skills. Shaughnessy explains books can help children improve their conversation and listening skills as well as promote children asking what words mean and visual attention retention.

Shaughnessy explains while reading with a child it is important to “take the cue from your child when reading, if children flip back and forth all over the book, be patient. It shows they enjoy the book and want to concentrate on the parts that especially appeal to them. Another word of advice: show interest and enthusiasm when reading to children so the words on the page have appeal and hold their attention.”

If you are not sure what book to get, Shaughnessy suggests getting a gift certificate instead so the child can choose the book they would like to read.

 

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