By Heidi Hess
Kids hate reading, empty nest syndrome is real and other myths.
We all know the popular urban myths: Step on a line, break your fathers spine. Step on a crack, break your momma’s back. How many lines and cracks have we stepped on over the years and everyone’s fine? I’m here to add a few new myths to that list. How many times have I heard over the course of my kids academic career “I just can’t get little Johnny/Susie to read?” Or, as a mom, thought about smacking my head against the wall while trying to get my math/science minded child to read a flipping book? Struggle is real but…
When my son was three I was distressed that he wasn’t fully potty trained. A friend at the playground reminded me that he wasn’t going to go to college in diapers… to just relax and it would happen. She was right. He’s going to college and guess what? He’s not in diapers (Thank you, Jesus).
And it’s the same thing with kids and reading. It’s not that they don’t like to read, it’s that they haven’t found the right book. That’s really the key. It could also be that reading is forced down their throats in school. It becomes something they have to do, instead of something they want to do. It’s our jobs as guardians/guides to set up positive experiences that remind them that reading, and writing, is a friend.
When my daughter was in elementary school she loved a book called Eight Keys by Suzanne LaFleur. The author took the time to talk to her and ask her questions. My daughter had her own questions for this author and I think she was taken back by them. She has always had a love for reading but this experience, I think, solidified it.
We all have that one book or experience that changed things for us. My book was The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis. It was a game changer for me. I can still see the pictures it created in my mind. Like I said, kids or people love to read, if they say they don’t, they just haven’t found the right book.
On to the second urban myth I’d like to debunk: Empty nest syndrome is real. Nope. No it’s not. Here’s my argument for why it’s an urban myth. The kids leave and the parents slowly come out of their shells and GO CRAZY! Ha ha.. they are never home… they have money for other things… they can do whatever they want now. Can I take a dance class? Yes, I can. Can I practice drumming in my kids room? Yes, I can. Can I stay up till the wee hours of the morning writing my next masterpiece or organizing a book festival?? YES, I CAN!! This last one hits close to home. I realized that for the past eight years I have been preparing for the day my kids would leave the nest. I knew that if I didn’t have some things in place that I would honestly fall apart. I love my kids and I have loved being their mom but I have other things that fill my life. Will I miss them when they leave? Absolutely, 100%… truth be told, I’ll cry after I finish writing this. My life is so blessed and full… what else could I ask for? I’ll tell you what else… Part II.
What does Part II look like for me? Well, I’ve already laid the foundation. I have three collections of short stories that have been published AND I’m in the fourth year of Read It Write It Book and Writing Festival (shameless plug) happening at the Wellington Green Mall on Saturday, June 14, 2025 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is FREE and there will be FORTY independent authors there just waiting to interact with you or your kids. This is a passion project. If you know me, you know that I want a large book festival that is accessible to everyone here in Palm Beach County and I think it should be free because reading is for everyone… not just those who can afford to spend $75 a day (I’m looking at you Palm Beach Book Festival).
First, I implore you to come out to Read It Write It this year. It’s such a fun day. Panel discussions and workshops are all FREE. Who knows… maybe you or your kids will find “their book” or have a life changing experience that shapes how they feel about reading or writing… or about anything. (Also, editor’s note: AroundWellington.com will have a table at Read It Write It this year, so stop by and say “hello!”).
Second, whatever stage of parenting you are in? I challenge you to find your Part II. What is it that lights your soul on fire? Start doing more of that and you too can debunk the empty nest syndrome.
Congratulations to the Class of 2025! Reach for the stars… (you too parents!)
