Blog 6: Books: Rated or Unrated

Children exploring life through books, and using or learning to use their imaginations is very important.  Children gain knowledge by reading biographies and autobiographies, encyclopedias, maps, or any type of educational information.  There are books written for all age groups, and yes I believe there should be a rating (G, PG, PG-13, R) on some.  I also believe judgement by the parent should be made according to the maturity of the child.  Some elementary students can read "Harry Potter" or even "Twilight."  They are not going to understand parts, but they will understand the main story line.  School libraries have a large assortment of books suitable for all ages.  Parents need to be aware, if their child is using the public library or purchasing books, of the sexual content and possibly violence they may contain.  I wouldn't want my teenage children reading "50 Shades of Gray".  Teens have enough of this exposure through television.  Children, I believe, are going to read what they understand and whatever is of interest to them.  Unless a child has been abused or exposed to violence in some way, I believe they will choose age appropriate material.  I hope children read to find adventure, hope, and love for what interests them in life.  "It takes a village to raise a child," parents need to be a part of that village.