The lockdown in Nigeria due to COVID19 has provided an opportunity to reflect on life and its essence thereof. It has equally created ample opportunity for family bonding. On a personal level, it has given an opportunity to read several books that are gathering dust on the bookshelves. Therefore, I decided not to read alone. I got the children involved. Recognizing that it’s not easy to pull them out from television and games which in their own is not bad if it is done with limited exposure, I decided to introduce Reading for Earning program
Each child is expected to read four books over a specified period. We have set one book per week target. I take time to conduct an assessment of each child’s understanding of the book read. Assessment is based on the following criteria: summary, attention to details, lessons learned from the book, random questions to gauge who finished the book and care of the book in your possession. Mutilated books after reading attract zero points without mercy. Each of these assessment parameters attracts 10points. My aim is to teach them real-life skills. They must take responsibility for their action.
The first, second and third prizes for each reading session attract =N=2500, 1,500 and 1000 respectively. The grand price of =N=10000 is won at the end of the reading cycle. The highest cumulative score wins the grand prize!!!
Quite naturally, competition has become stiff especially after the first reading session when prizes were awarded. Interestingly, The children are happy they can make money from reading. Readers are leaders.
COVID19 is not a Death Sentence
Covid-19 lockdown is not about depression. I have reduced my exposure to news to avoid depression. I am using all manner of activities to keep myself happy. If you don’t, you risk dying before your time.
Let’s remember to pray hard and read the ultimate book bible or Qur’an depending on your faith. So, if you don’t fall into these categories, believe strongly in your own divine books and remain optimistic that it will end in praises. As for me and my family, Reading for Earning is fun. A good way to bond.
