“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss

Many studies show the benefits of reading, but it's easy in the rush of busy lives, to push the enjoyment of reading aside for other concerns. Now is the perfect time to take time to stop and read. March is National Reading Month and here are five ways you can celebrate. 

1. Read out loud to your child for at least 15 minutes a day. Gather up the children in your life and read together as a family. Discover new lands and adventures. Make new friends. By reading out loud, you turn what is often a solitary activity to one the whole familiy can enjoy together. 
2. Visit the library. Go on a field trip and discover new books at the library. Let your children explore the shelves and  pick out their favorites to bring home and read. Often libraries have additional activities centered around reading. Who knows what you may discover – it could help your child discover a new interest or passion.
3. Create a fun reading challenge for your family. Make reading fun by creating a challenge out of it. See who can read the most in one month. Or pick a challenge to work on together. March 2 is Dr. Seuss' birthday. See if you can read all his books before the end of the month.
4. Enjoy an audio book. There are many different ways to enjoy reading. Give your eyes a break and listen to an audio book. Have it playing while you are doing your chores or sit outside and enjoy nature while listening to a grand new adventure. And it's perfect if you have a road trip planned for Spring Break. Play it over the speakers in the car and enjoy it as a family as you travel.
5. Help vulnerable children in your community celebrate National Reading Month. This is a great time to get involved with your community and help foster the love of reading to a vulnerable child. Volunteer to read to children in after-school programs, donate books to shelters or day cares or volunteer to be a reading mentor to a struggling reader. Buckner has many opportunities for you to help readers either by donating books or becoming a reading mentor. Check out all the opportunities in your community now.