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Parents of the Year
We were never given a manual on how to parent. It is easy to get overwhelmed to know the right thing to do. There is so much contradictory information out there and everyone has their own advice. Parenting is a rewarding but messy, confusing, infuriating, guilt-inducing, and overwhelming journey. While it's easy to get lost, Andrew Stewart, a real dad, and Dr. Caroline Buzanko, a real mom, child psychologist, and parenting expert (who also happens to be married to Andrew) will help you get back on track. In each episode, Andrew and Caroline have open and honest chats about everything parenting. Join them in honesty, laughter, and tears (Caroline is a bit of a cry baby) as they help you navigate this journey of parenting. And, every so often, you may get some gems of expert advice. Our goal is to make your parenting journey less stressful, more forgiving, and more awesome. Please join us every Wednesday for new episodes of Parenting of the Year.
Parents of the Year
212. How Do Parents Build Strong Readers Without Daily Battles?
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In this episode of Parents of the Year, Andrew and Dr. Caroline tackles a concern many are facing right now: how do you raise children who enjoy reading when screens compete for every second of attention?
From bedtime stories and graphic novels to hockey intermissions with a book in hand, Andrew and Dr. Caroline share what worked in their own home raising readers. They talk honestly about screen dependency, why family reading habits matter, and how creating a calm reading space can change the rhythm of family life.
You’ll hear practical ideas for children with ADHD, reluctant readers, teens who would rather scroll than sit with a book, and parents who struggle to model reading themselves. They also unpack why fiction builds empathy, why reading aloud still matters, and why “30 minutes a day” can make a massive difference in language development and emotional growth.
This episode is packed with real stories, sharp humour, parenting truth bombs, and simple strategies families can start using tonight.
Topics covered:
- Helping kids enjoy reading without forcing it
- Graphic novels, comics, and ADHD-friendly reading
- Screen time and attention spans
- Why family reading routines matter
- Reading spaces that kids actually want to use
- How reading supports empathy, vocabulary, creativity, and emotional regulation
- Why parents need to model reading too
If your child says books are “boring,” this episode is for you.
Homework Activities for Adults Supporting Children & Teens
1. Create a Family Reading Window
Pick the same 30-minute block every evening where everyone reads adults included. No TV. No phones.
Resources needed:
- Physical books, comics, magazines, or graphic novels
- Cozy seating
- Lamp or reading light
- Basket for devices outside the room
2. Build a Reading Space Together
Let kids help create the reading area with blankets, beanbags, pillows, shelves, or music.
Resources needed:
- Beanbag chair or floor cushions
- Bookshelf or reading basket
- Warm lighting
- Optional: quiet instrumental playlist
3. Pair Books with Entertainment
Read the book first, then watch the movie adaptation together.
Ideas mentioned in spirit during the episode:
- Harry Potter
- Graphic novels turned into films
- Hockey biographies for sports-loving kids
Resources needed:
- Library card
- Streaming service
- Family discussion afterward
4. Start a “Commercial Break Reading” Habit
Keep a book nearby during sports games or TV time. Read during commercials or breaks.
Resources needed:
- Easy-access books
- Bookmark
- Family participation
5. Replace One Hour of Weekend Screen Time
Choose one block on weekends where phones and tablets are off-limits.
Use the time for:
- Reading
- Listening to audiobooks
- Reading aloud
- Family storytelling
Resources needed:
- Device basket
- Audiobook app or library access
- Timer
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