The "Clutter" Problem

       When and where to discard papers and magazines ought to be a matter which a whole family decides. In general, it has been found wise to keep newspapers several days, for future reference. This is especially essential as children begin to discuss items on the way to school and in school. Past issues should be available to help a child prove a point or share information with others. In one home, Saturday morning was salvage and discard morning, when the children went through newspapers and magazines, and cut out articles, pictures, and sections for their collections or school reference work. Finding convenient space for the growing home library is another problem which children and adults should decide together. Bookshelves in children's rooms become essential, and if made by the children, they are doubly appreciated by them. Above all, frequently used reference books should be placed where they are always easily accessible. 

       A systematic approach toward preserving printed materials may be all that is necessary to guide youngsters into learning how properly to care for and handle their belongings. With the youngest, direct suggestions may be necessary. An infant, looking at a picture, is told, "Pat the dog, pat the baby." This gives the child an opportunity to touch, to do something, other than tear the page. It also avoids the negative, "Don't tear," which often causes this youngster to respond by giving a good rip to see what the adult will do next. Cloth books for infants who persist in tearing-and in eating are fine. Later, at the age of about three to four, when his desire to color and scribble begins, a child should be given old magazines and paper on which he can mark as much as he pleases. 

        As a rule, children take care of the things they like. If a book is a choice possession, it is likely to receive respectful handling, it will be treated carefully according to the child's conception of care. It is neither natural nor desirable for children to be as clean handed as adults. Pressure for too rigid care of books can so annoy a child that he avoids them. If sensible suggestions for care can be worked out with children in home and in school, they will invariably be followed.

Return to the "Reading Is Fun" Index Page

Back                                                                                                       Next