The concept of taking responsiblity is one that needs to be strengthened by parental advice during our children's formative years. Reading helps prepare our children to learn how to accept their own responsibility. It also helps prevent them from accepting any burden that isn't theirs. Encouraging our children to select reading materials strengthens their sense of self-worth, good judgement and independence. Nothing shows respect more than talking with your child, rather than to your children shows respect for them as developing human beings.
Respect is the foundation of self-worth.
While reading together, even the youngest child will begin to feel independent because they are interacting as equals with grownups. Our children feel empowered by being a valuable part of the family experience. Independence is one of the greatest attributes a child can develop. Reading time strengthens the idea that our life experiences merit respect and that our roles as parents are vital to our children's well-being. Interacting with your child while reading to him will naturally lead to questions.