This summer, the summer between pre-K and kindergarten, has been one that has seen the most growth in my children. This is their sixth summer, and after looking at photo albums and thinking about past summers, I have come to the realization that this may be one that will stand out in my mind the longest.
Last summer, naps were encouraged and time was fit into each afternoon for a siesta. I think this was more for me than for them, though. This summer, naps were a very rare occurrence. On days that were particularly hot, we would watch a movie and spend time playing and reading quietly. This summer, the kids went to bed by 8 p.m. (cough, cough sometimes later to my dismay) and slept until 7 a.m. most mornings.
Most of the first month of summer vacation was spent longing for teachers and friends. I heard most mornings, “How much longer? Why can’t we go to school?” I did get this on video because we all know that this will not last. Knowing how they love a countdown to events, I wrote on the calendar how many days until school begins in various places so I can give them concrete answers. We also spent time most days doing lessons. To Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca this was a great deal of fun.
Then, on July 2, an amazing thing happened: They got their passports! The Albany Public Library bestowed upon Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca their very own library cards.
Not only did the children get their cards, I did too. I have lived here almost eight years and often thought of getting one for myself but never got around to it. The kids received library privileges at school this past year so the progression to getting cards for the public library was natural.
The Main Branch of the Albany Public Library is their favorite place, and the best reward for good behavior. When the three of them got their library cards, they also signed up for the summer reading program. By their reactions, one would think they had won a prize of great value. My kids love books, love reading and being read to, as well as choosing books to bring home. The library has also given me the confidence to allow the children computer time outside of school, and the librarians have engaged the children in conversations and developed a sense of belonging in my children.
As a child, I can remember going to the library, walking the three miles occasionally to find a place that was quiet and where I felt like I belonged. Books have always been a key part of my life. As a teen, I thought that getting a part-time job in a bookstore was a good idea. Wrong! Most of my pay went right back to my employers.
Books and reading have been and integral part of my children’s lives for five and a half years. Now the world of reading is open to them with the beautiful green card they have signed in their shaky print. They know that books are to be treated with love and care. Every room in our home has books. The hallway has built-in shelves that house books older than I.
Late nights and early mornings are made for reading. Raining days, hot and humid days, and days that are sunny are made for reading. Days ending in “y” are made for reading. I hope the kids love to read for the rest of their lives because this will open worlds to them that will inspire and challenge them.
My wonderful trio of readers learned a new word, one that they dazzled the librarians with on their summer reader cards. This word carries so much meaning in its four syllables: bibliophile. I am teaching them to love language, to love books and fill the never-ending need for knowledge at the local library.
Jennifer Steuer is an Albany mom, whose busy household includes her husband, Harlan, and 5-year-old triplets Olivia, Benjamin and Rebecca. The one thing she misses most about pre-triplet days is sleep.