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Bradley Middle School LIBRARY PAGE |
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BOOK FAIR
May 19-23 In the Library.
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HOME
PORTAL - Resources for YOU! *See librarian
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How can parents help children and teens make the best use of the library?
Allow your kids to explore the library. Children and teens are naturally attracted to materials intended for them. They are generally not attracted to materials that are too advanced for their reading or maturity levels. By asking questions and learning to find their own answers, young people learn to think for themselves, to compare and contrast differing opinions and to analyze what they see and hear, rather than blindly following others.
Ask your librarian for suggestions about materials that are appropriate for
your children’s ages, maturity levels, knowledge and interests. Read book
s
and brochures that review materials for children or teens. Review those
materials yourself to determine if they are what you think your children may
like or need. While librarians and resource lists can provide guidance, you know
your children and family’s needs best.
Discuss your family rules regarding library use with your children. If you are concerned they will not respect your wishes, it is your responsibility to visit the library with them.
When you can’t go along, show an interest in what your children bring home from the library. Have a special shelf for library materials and take time to familiarize yourself with them. Ask your children in a non-threatening way to share what they found at the library. Praise their independence and responsibility in caring for library materials and returning them on time.
If you feel an item is inappropriate for your children, use this as an opportunity to express your views and provide guidance. When you return the material, simply ask the librarian to help you find something else from among the many choices available.
Be aware that many young people seek information from libraries that they are embarrassed or afraid to ask an adult. A factual library book, unlike hearsay from friends, can ease their fears or even keep them safe from harm. Remember that just because a child is reading or viewing something, it doesn’t mean he or she is participating in or approves of it. If you have a concern, take the opport unity to discuss it.
Be a role model for library use. Nothing teaches children better than seeing you use and enjoy the wide range of materials available.
Establish a family routine of going regularly to the library. Visiting the library once a week or once a month encourages young people to use the library both for learning and pleasure, and teaches them how to find what they need—an invaluable skill for school and a lifetime of learning.
Get to know your public and school librarians. Their expertise can help you and your children get the most out of libraries.
Ask for the item you want. If the library doesn't already own it, the librarian may be able to locate similar materials, borrow it from another library or add it to the collection.
For more information about how your library can meet your family’s needs, talk to your librarian.
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