In an era where screens and digital distractions reign supreme, finding ways to connect with our children over the written word can seem like a daunting task. Twinkle Khanna, a celebrated author and columnist, shares a heartwarming anecdote that transcends the conventional methods of engaging young readers. Her story is not just about reading but about building a lasting bond through the pages of a book.
“Some purists may find scribbling in books distasteful, but it’s important to remember that the goddess of wisdom doesn’t visit when you worship books, she drops by when you read them,” Khanna begins, setting the tone for her narrative. This profound insight underscores a shift from viewing books as untouchable relics to embracing them as interactive companions in our intellectual and emotional journeys.
Khanna recounts how she and her daughter turned the margins of their books into a playground for thoughts and ideas. This unique approach to reading became a game of literary tag, where the incentive to read more came not from external rewards or punishments, but from the simple, yet powerful, motivation of staying ahead in their “Book Battle.” Khanna humorously likens her daughter’s fervor to that of PT Usha, India’s sprint queen, highlighting the competitive yet affectionate spirit that fueled their reading sessions.
The chosen book for their shared adventure was William Golding’s classic, “Lord of the Flies.” As they navigated through its pages, their marginal notes became a silent conversation, a dialogue that wove their individual perspectives into a tapestry of shared understanding. When they finally finished the book, Khanna placed it in her daughter’s bedside drawer. She reflects, “In time, my daughter may forget about our Book Battle, but when she opens this scribbled copy, it will be another sort of navigational guide — one that will outline a bond we shared, a connection we made, and a book we read together.”
This simple yet profound practice holds a mirror to the broader challenge parents face today: how to entice children away from the magnetic pull of screens and towards the immersive world of books. Khanna’s method is a testament to the power of personal connection and interactive reading. It’s a reminder that books are not just solitary escapes but can also be bridges that link minds and hearts.
In the comments below her post, Khanna invites others to share their strategies for encouraging reading in the digital age. This call-to-action fosters a community of shared experiences and tips, enriching the conversation around nurturing young readers.
To delve deeper into Khanna’s insights, readers can follow her column in the Times of India or explore her stories on social media. Her narrative, infused with wit and wisdom, continues to inspire many to look at books not just as sources of knowledge, but as vessels of connection and love.
Credits: twinklerkhanna instagram
No Comment! Be the first one.