Over the past nine months, the enchanting world of Harry Potter has worked wonders in our home. These beloved books transformed bedtime from a battleground into a peaceful ritual. I’d settle at the edge of my son’s bed and begin reading, and just like that, he would quiet down as if under a spell. No longer were there distractions from YouTube, Kindle, or Minecraft; Harry Potter guided my son to slumber, allowing him to unwind while hanging onto every word I read, often peppering me with questions before gently falling asleep.
Beyond ensuring a smooth bedtime, the series also became a crucial tool for promoting good behavior. A single act of mischief towards his little brother could mean missing out on our nightly reading session. The power of the story was more effective than any wand, effectively cooling the occasional tensions between my sons.
Moreover, the books acted as a soothing remedy, rivaling any ADHD medication. Before my son’s medication took effect, his energy could be overwhelming, leading to challenging behavior. Yet, the prospect of diving into the adventures of Harry Potter captivated him and helped him channel his focus on the unfolding narrative.
As we neared the conclusion of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, I found myself hesitating. While I was as eager as anyone to see how Harry would triumph over Voldemort, I dreaded the thought of our shared journey coming to an end. It wasn’t just about saying goodbye to characters I had come to love; it was the fear of losing the precious moments of reading together.
Jim Trelease, an educator and author, emphasizes the importance of reading to children, even those who are adept readers. He highlights two primary reasons: a child’s listening comprehension is generally more advanced than their reading ability until around the fifth grade, and shared reading fosters conversations that might not otherwise occur. This was certainly true for my son and me as we navigated the magical plots together.
Having been a high school English teacher, I value the first reason, but it is the second that resonates deeply with me. Our shared reading time has always been a cherished bonding experience. Those moments became a daily highlight, not only for the stories but also for the discussions about his school day, baseball, and the new dynamics of growing up. Sometimes, we simply enjoyed the story in silence, creating a comfortable space together.
As my son grows older, I know he’ll likely spend more time in his room, absorbed in YouTube videos, music, or Minecraft. I recognize that tweens and teens often enter a phase where parental company is less appealing; however, my son isn’t there yet, and I hope to prolong this connection. The realm of magic and wizardry has kept us engaged for nearly a year, and while that may not be as grand as defeating Voldemort, it is undoubtedly my favorite aspect of the Harry Potter experience.
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In summary, the influence of Harry Potter in our household has been profound, fostering connection, conversation, and calm during a pivotal time in my son’s life.