In remembrance of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, Assemblyman Mike Norris (R,C-Lockport) encouraged students to embrace reading as part of national Read Across America Day today at George M. Southard Elementary School in Lockport. Norris read The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss, whose 115^th March 2 birthday is memorialized by the National Education Association to inspire children to read.

“Reading with your child or grandchild is a wonderful gift. Sharing your passion for learning and discovering new worlds together is a gift that a child will remember throughout their life, and it helps to cultivate a lifelong love of learning,” said Norris. “In the spirit of Dr. Seuss, I encourage everyone to give reading a chance—and particularly if you have a child in your life. Please stop by our wonderful local libraries for book recommendations, story times for kids or book clubs for adults.”

In addition to the efforts of our libraries, Norris said the work of educators, like those at George M. Southard Elementary School, should also be commended for their efforts to help children learn to read and promote lifelong passions for learning. Additionally, the work of parents, grandparents and child care providers is essential in helping keep children on track with phonics and reading goals. In addition to visiting libraries or local booksellers to find inspiration for new books to read, Norris suggested these ideas to help spur more reading at home:

• Keep books where you spend time, such as in the car, various rooms of the house and tucked into backpacks or purses so there is always a book easily accessible when there are a few moments.
• Because children imitate what they see adults do around them, try reading more often yourself or read out loud to your child. Reading aloud strengthens a child’s vocabulary and language skills and opens opportunities for discussion.
• Ask your children to read to you. Whether it’s a book, magazine, cooking directions or a manual, asking your children for help reading can help you learn as much as it can help them.