Summary: Crystal Paschal is a wife, mom of 3 boys, and a teacher-turned-homeschooling parent. She’s also the bookworm behind Fundamental Children’s Books, an online resource that helps parents find great books for their kids. Crystal loves to read (of course!), and she also loves running, crochet, and a good cup of coffee. You can find her online at itsfundamental.info.<br> This post contains affiliate links. Click here to read my disclosure statement.<br> From this episode<br> <br> Crystal and I discuss why reading is so important to our family culture.<br> <br> Reading to our children is like glue that brings us together to have a shared experience. Reading conveys to our children that reading is an important value. Reading books that express our values also helps teach our children those values, such as empathy, or resilience.<br> <br> Start making reading a habit, even if it's just five minutes a day. Put away that shame that you aren't doing enough if you aren't reading the "right" amount or at the "right" times. The right amount, and the right times, are the amounts and times that work for your family. <br> <br> Audiobooks can be a great way to get into reading. There are lots of ways to access great audiobooks. Of course there's Audible, or you can use your local library app to borrow audiobooks, and CDs from the library. Or you could check out LibriVox.org where you can access any public domain audiobooks. (Side note: I gave volunteering at LibriVox a try, and you can listen to my chapter (15) in Little Women, here).<br> We like to listen to books while we're doing chores, having quiet play time, or while we're driving.<br> <br> This is the bluetooth transmitter I use for my car since it did not come with bluetooth already, and it has been great! Nulaxy Bluetooth Car FM Transmitter Audio Adapter Receiver Wireless Handsfree Car Kit W 1.44 Inch Display - KM18 Black<br> <br> You can pick just about any Bluetooth Speaker that you like, just make sure to check the reviews carefully, and pick one that's fair quality. We have found that the AmazonBasics Portable Wireless Bluetooth Speaker is working great for us. I don't have any complaints so far.<br> <br> <br> Crystal's recommendation for reading aloud:<br> <br> The cool thing about this book is that it serves as a check list, and a journal for your kids to record their thoughts about the books!<br> <br> A few more resources that offer great books lists (click the image to get the book):<br> <br> <br> Also, Institute for Excellence in Writing, iew.com has great resources.<br> <br> One of my favorites: LibrariesofHope.com<br> <br> Connect with Crystal:<br> <br> Website<br> <br> Facebook<br> <br> Instagram<br> <br> Twitter<br> <br> Pinterest<br> <br>
