"The more you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." - Dr. Seuss, "I Can Read With My Eyes Shut"

The simple fact is there's no short cut to becoming a good reader. Like any other skill, it takes practice -- the more you read, the better you'll read.

Here are five simple keys to reading success with your children.

• Provide reading materials (books and periodicals) that complement their interests.


• Discuss vocabulary and encourage the use of increasingly sophisticated words in everyday conversations.


• Create a basis for discussions about literature by reading the books your older children enjoy then engage them in conversation about their favorite characters or scenes.


• Tempt reluctant readers with books related to favorite sports, hobbies, or other interest such as movies.


• Model reading by sitting down for a few minutes each day to enjoy your favorite book. A books is perfect while waiting for appointments or picking up children at school. Read aloud some funny or interesting parts of your favorite book.

Here are the answers to Friday's Famous Firsts.

1. "In the great green room, there was a telephone and a red balloon." Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown.

2. "These two very old people are the father and mother of Mr. Bucket." Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl.

Congratulations to Jennie Rothschild at Biblio File for correctly identifying both titles and authors.