How to Join a Children's Book Group

Reading is an essential part of a child's education and intellectual development. As a parent or educator, you'll want to provide every opportunity for your children or students to be exposed to the wonders of the written word--from cradle to graduation. One way to do this is to learn how to join a children's book group. Membership is free and the rewards are far-reaching.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Learn How to Join A Children's Book Group

1. Visit the juvenile book section of your local library. More often than not, you'll find information there about a children's book group that meets on a weekly basis. This is usually known as 'Story Hour' and features a new book selection each week being read to the children by a librarian or volunteer.
2. Join your local PTA (Parent-Teachers Association), if you're not already a member. PTAs are great proponents of reading programs and yours may already have a children's book group in place. If it doesn't, bring up starting one at the next PTA meeting.
3. Contact your child's school administrator or her homeroom teacher about developing a children's book group for its students.
4. Take your child to your local bookstore. Larger book outlets, such as Barnes and Nobles, not only host children's book groups but also provide related hands-on activities. So, while your child is engaged in hearing the latest of Harry Potter's adventures being read aloud, you can relax with a book of your own and a cup of coffee. If you wish to learn when a specific author is scheduled to appear, use the locator tool on the Barnes and Noble Web site.
5. Bring a children's book group to your child when you join online. Scholastic Books provides reviews of new releases, interactive games, polls, videos and homework help as well as a summer reading list where kids can vote for their favorite books and authors.

Tips & Warnings

• If you approach your PTA, school or child's teacher about developing a children's book group, you may be asked to volunteer to assist with organizing it or even running it yourself. Keep this in mind if you already have a full schedule.
• A staff usually moderates online children's book groups and their message boards and forums. However, it is still your duty to teach and encourage security practices as well as monitor your child's online activity.

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