Happy New Year--Just Say, “Alohomora!”

“I do believe something very magical can happen when you read a good book.” ~J.K. Rowling

Donning the “sorting hat” to kick off our Harry Potter Club was an exciting moment for all of our students involved. Little did they know that they were delving into a fun study of literature that would also teach them mythology, social issues . . .

At school students do a lot of reading and writing. In doing this, we attempt to make it as fun and real world as possible. At times this can be challenging--if not a stretch. This is one of the reasons that the Harry Potter Club was started.

As we enter the new year, many of us have created resolutions that we hope to carry out and have become ingrained habits. At home we would like to encourage you to resolve to keep reading and writing fun.

The first step is to choose a resolution that is simple and easily attainable. The Scholastic article, Make Reading Fun With These 3 Easy Tips, suggests reading aloud, incorporating art and try new reading sources. Whatever you choose, make it a joint decision between you and your child(ren).

After you’ve collectively picked your resolution remember to keep it front and center at all times. Post it on the fridge, bedroom doors and talk about it a lot. Remember though, keep it fun! Decorate it as a plaque, text each other or use an app. A simple online site, like HassleMe, can help remind you about things. Trying new ideas, such as these, can make the goal more attainable.

Whether you are donning the sorting hat, writing Seussical rhymes, or drawing Captain Underpants, books can take you to magical places and be the key to unlocking your resolution.