How Do Parents Make Time to Read?
Last week, I talked about how parents should read for themselves and the benefits that come with reading (CLICK HERE) to catch up.
Every parent is busy running this kid to music lessons, getting art supplies for this kid, packing lunches, doing dishes, working, bathing babies, and there are only 24 hours in a day. How are you supposed to find time to read with all of these responsibilities weighing you down?
Yes, I do believe that there are seasons of your life when things are too chaotic to pick up a good book to read, like when you bring a newborn home. All downtime should include catching up on sleep and taking care of you. During this season, it is very unlikely you will be able to comprehend what you are reading, so you can save any good books for when you start to settle into your new role as parents.
But for those of us out of the new parent stage, there are many opportunities throughout the day that would make a great time to dive into a good book.
How Parents Make Time to Read
Read with your child-Ask your child to grab a book or 4 and sit with you while you read. Let them read their books while you read your book.
Read first thing in the morning and/or before bed-Set your alarm 30 minutes earlier and start your day with a good book. Or if you aren’t a morning person, wind down before bed with a book.
Always take a book or magazine with you-Always keep a book or magazine in your bag when you leave the house. If you have any downtime you can pull out your book instead of scrolling through your phone.
Read on your commute-If you don’t have to drive to work, then you can use this valuable time to catch up on your reading (as long as it doesn’t make you car sick).
Exchange a show or movie for a book-At the end of a long day, unwinding with your favorite show sounds wonderful, but instead of watching 2 or 3 shows just watch one and use the rest of the time to read your book.
Set a reminder to read-If reading isn’t a habit for you yet, then it’s helpful to set a reminder to read your book instead of sitting down to watch TV when you normally would.
Read with a partner-Read the same book with your husband or friend. This will help hold you accountable and you can discuss the book together.
I hope one of these suggestions allows you to find time to begin or continue your reading journey. Sometimes it’s hard to find the right book to read, so next week I will share some ways to help you pick a book.
