Something for All Kids
By Susan Shadle Erb
Hugo loves the crafts. Orit, Efrayim, and Zfanyah like the historical articles, stories, jokes, and riddles. Emalee's favorite parts are Hidden Pictures® and the Picture Puzzler. Tiffany always reads "Ask Arizona" first. And Olivia can't wait to see "Dear Highlights" each month.
These comments appeared in recent letters from Highlights® readers. And they show the importance of the variety offered in each issue of the magazine.
"We concentrate on contributing to all dimensions of the developing child, as described by our mission statement," says Senior Editor Marileta Robinson. The magazine is dedicated "to helping children grow in basic skills and knowledge, in creativeness, in ability to think and reason, in sensitivity to others, in high ideals and worthy ways of living."
"Children are open to anything. Their interests are still developing," Robinson says. "The more we can introduce them to in the way of science, the arts, sports, history, literature, world cultures, and so on, the more possibilities they will have in life."
For example, a child might not know that she's fascinated by the study of ecology or the art of glass blowing until she reads thearticles "Let the Buffalo Roam" and "Paperweight Magic" in the June issue.
Highlights offers features for kids with different interests, abilities, and learning styles.
The variety of features helps all kids find things they like. "When a child enjoys what he's reading, he's increasing literacy skills," Robinson explains.
"Any time children have a successful reading experience, that success encourages them to read more," Coordinating Editor Kim Griswell says. "So they may move from one part of the magazine to another part that catches their interest."
"Some kids enjoy short features, such as the jokes, riddles, and puzzles," Robinson says. "Others like to curl up with something longer. Some love fiction and some love nonfiction. Some love animals and some love reading about other kids."
The magazine offers material for kids who like to be active, those who are creative, and those who like to figure things out.
"The variety draws in kids with all kinds of interests and helps hook them on reading," Robinson concludes.