Storytime is the best time

As a father, bedtime has long been my favorite time of the day. Not because I’m ready to shed myself of parental responsibilities, though sometimes I run out of love to give at 8 p.m., but because bedtime is story time.

Bedtime stories don’t come as often as they used to, with my kids getting older, but occasionally, I’ll be asked by my youngest to snuggle in for a short story. Over the years, we have amassed an impressive library of children’s books, and there is always something new to discover, whether in a long-forgotten passage or an unnoticed image in the artwork.

There is a long list of benefits to reading daily with kids. From building a strong relationship, to setting them up for academic success, reading is one of the most important things a family can do. Children’s literature has come a long way since I was a kid. Though some classics remain in circulation, there’s a brand-new world of content from writers and illustrators the world over, helping bring a little magic to everyday life.

With a little flair, a weird voice for a character here, an added sound effect there, story time is better than watching television or a night at the theater. Just remember, if something is funny enough, you’ll have to do it over and over again, often to the point of aggravation or even exhaustion. I do a pretty good impersonation of Grover, a reoccurring puppet from the long-running Sesame Street show, and there was a stretch of time when I had to read the classic “The Monster at the End of this Book” in character. After a week, I was hoarse and sick of it, but you’ll do anything for your kids.

Was it worth it? Absolutely. Those were simpler times when the highlight of my day was preparing for my starring role as Grover. You never think you would miss it, but as time goes forward, once those days are gone, they are gone.

I try to think about that after a hard day, and all I want to do is sit down and enjoy some peace and quiet. Each bedtime story may be the last I ever read, so if I’m asked, I’ll do it.

I’ve always wanted to try my hand at writing a children’s book. Surely, I have a decent idea buried somewhere in my brain. I have a built-in focus group who aren’t afraid to hurt my feelings. It can be my little contribution to keeping storytime alive even if I’m not the one reading anymore.

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