The coronavirus pandemic encouraged many to finally do things they have been putting off. Got a book gathering dust amid your busy schedule? The pandemic lockdown is a good time to dust off that book and read.
Now that parents have more time with their children, there are more story times and cuddles, too. It is a good thing to spend quality time with kids. Another bonus of daily story time is to give your little ones a head start on reading readiness.
As a dad to Ava, 9 and Isabella, 6, actor Josh Gad understands the value of story time for children. The actor made the most of the lockdown with daily story time on social media.
Children will be amazed to recognize Gad as the voice of the snowman Olaf in "Frozen." Gad dusts off books that he has not read in a while as well as a few favorites.
The 39-year-old actor hoped to provide leisure and entertainment at a time when families are forced to stay home. He said that he too would love to be out in the world, but understood that health is a top concern at the moment.
"Now is the time to protect those who are fragile or immune-compromised," expressed the actor, LA Times reported.
Daycare or Self-care
Gad entertained his fans by saying that it is okay if adults are watching story time for their own entertainment. It is a breath of fresh air to listen to classics and tales of fictional characters, at any age.
Gad provides a judgment-free video where he encourages anyone who takes interest in books, to enjoy the live videos whenever they please.
"10 minutes of daycare for families" is what the actor hopes to give to his followers, Parents reported. He reasoned that at a time of unprecedented global event, even sharing time for storytelling may help.
Storytelling Amid the Scary Pandemic
The coronavirus pandemic does not look like it will come to an end anytime soon. So, the actor decided to bring the voice of Olaf into the world of storytelling. This simple act can help infuse joy in a global situation that can be rather scary and unpredictable.
Gad pondered about how the world is now "in a bit of a hot mess." With that in mind, the dad-of-two added, "figured we could all have a bit of fun together."
The celebrity dad said he would read to his follower's children every night. "I'll try to provide daycare time for your children," he revealed. This is good news for parents who need at least a 10-minute break to quickly wrap up some chores, get into an important Zoom meeting, or finally run through a quick shower.
Good Reads During the Pandemic
"Olivia Goes to Venice" was the first book Gad picked up for his story time series. He brings Olaf's voice into the interesting read by Ian Falconer who wrote the "Olivia" book series.
A book about adventure and traveling is a good choice during the pandemic. Just when everyone is bound at home, the thrill of escaping to glorious adventures and beautiful places can give hope.
"The Day the Crayons Quit" authored by Drew Daywalt was Gad's next read. It is a good book that sparks conversation on social norms, obligation, and one's own personal interests.
An emotional read for Gad was a Shel Silverstein classic, "The Giving Tree." Parents can talk about the moral lesson of the story. Books with moral lessons are good reads for children.
