If they make a mistake, the little ones aren't going to know it and the older child will feel looked up to and cool. Peer togetherness also helps convince kids reading is cool. That's why school programs are so important. If an elementary or religious school isn't doing enough to promote enthusiasm for reading, parents can make all the difference. And parent involvement helps a program go over big.
Nothing motivates a child like parental support and admiration.
At our synagogue, lots of parents helped their kids with their Sefer Safari projects. And then all the parents were at the party, bubbling over with praise and applause. Each child will choose a book about Jewish life in a favorite country and share through costumes, puppets, mime, music and food. Who knows what exciting directions our kids' reading will take them and us. Meanwhile, Jonathan is not letting any dust gather.