Why I Fell in Love with Reading—and Why That Matters Now More Than Ever

I remember the smell of the Scholastic Book Fair like it was yesterday! Glossy posters, fresh ink, the smell of those giant scented pencils we just HAD to have. I was the kid who ran straight for the chapter books— 39 Clues in one hand, and a few crumpled dollar bills in the other, i was ready to be off on my imaginary adventure. You see, I didn’t just love reading. I LIVED for it!

I even remember in elementary school signing my own reading logs on the bus ride home because I already knew I’d finish the book before dinner and didn’t want to bother my mom with it later. Crazy, I know!! But, of course, I eventually got caught when my mom actually signed my reading log. She started making me retell the stories once I got off the bus. And when I say that lasted only a day, it’s because I could recite every detail down to the sound of waves crashing on the shore or the sway of a blue-gray dress. I think that was the moment we both truly realized how much I loved reading. I wasn’t reading for a sticker chart or an Accelerated Reader score. I read because it felt like magic!

It is this very feeling that fuels my passion to ignite a love for learning in every child I teach. Working closely with preschool-aged children, I witness firsthand how pivotal these early years are. During this critical period, their brains are developing at an extraordinary pace, and early literacy experiences extend far beyond simply teaching letters and words. Research in neuroscience and developmental psychology reveals that these early interactions profoundly influence how children think, communicate, and build the confidence to explore their world.

The early years are a unique window to cultivate language, cognitive skills, and emotional growth. When children engage with stories and books in a joyful, meaningful way, they’re building foundations that support everything from problem-solving to self-expression.

So how do we create these rich environments? How do we foster not just reading skills, but a genuine love of stories?

That’s exactly why I started this blog. I believe we can do better for our children, their families, and for all of us who care deeply about early learning. I want to explore the powerful connection between early childhood development, literacy, and meaningful engagement. I want to ask the big questions, share what I’ve learned along the way, and maybe help someone else fall head over heels for reading all over again.

I’m just a girl who used to sneak books off my mom’s shelf and now, I’m an educator, an advocate, and a lifelong reader, determined to light that same spark in little minds!

So let’s figure this out together, one story, one idea, and one meaningful moment at a time! Welcome to Growing Little Readers. I’m so happy to have you here! <3