Lit For Kids

No one will disagree with me if I make a bold statement that we are all under a lot of stress these days.  The on-going pandemic, issues of social justice, concerns over policy and policy makers, and missing loved ones can all make for overwhelming sadness, as well as sleepless nights.   If we are tired and worried, we can’t be the kind of support we hope to be to those who depend on us: our families and friends as well as activism work and advocacy responsibilities.

When stress is taking its toll, it is important to have moments to rebuild our strength by relaxing and taking care of ourselves.   The good news is:  several recent studies show that “reading fiction is more effective at reducing stress than listening to music, sipping tea, and taking a walk. In fact, stress levels were shown to be reduced by 68 percent after reading. While your brain is engaged in the story, your heart rate slows down and muscles relax. Because there is so much work for your brain to do, reading is a very effective way to focus your energy and improve your concentration. The act of reading something with a strong narrative arc also lasts beyond the time you’re reading. Your brain will actually hold on to the story, giving you something to revisit later.” ( See:  “Your Brain on Books,” Huffington Post.)

So it is actually good mental and physical rejuvenation to lose yourself in a book.  This month, look for posts with ideas and strategies for rereading, and suggestions for the kind of book that grabs your attention and keeps you involved in another world. Here’s one to get you started:  Books and Self-Care:  Lose Yourself in a Book   Then, check out our Family Reading Challenge and The World of Story: YA Fantasy Series. Happy reading!

~~~

This Week: A VELOCITY OF BEING

Last Week: NIGHT SHINE by Tessa Gratton:  Recommended YA Fantasy

Wait!  What is Lit for Kids, anyway?  We’re a website dedicated to kids, books, families and a LOVE of reading.  Want to know more about what we believe and who we are?  You can learn all about it, here!