When we think about reading, our first thoughts usually go to books. Whether it is a favorite childhood book, the novel on your nightstand, shelves of books in the library, or a favorite collection of classics, reading is normally equated with books. But if you think about it, reading goes far beyond books.

Text is found nearly everywhere in our modern life. There does not have to be a bookshelf, or library, or classroom nearby. In fact, many of us read every hour of every day. If you really want to explore the world of reading and encourage reading in your children, it is helpful to think outside of the box.

You're sitting in the doctor's office. Take a look around. Where do you see the opportunity to read? There are probably signs on the wall giving instructions to the patients or quoting a proverb. On the tables in the waiting room will be magazines. Inside the doctor's examining room you can find posters with diagrams and words.

You're at the grocery store. There are signs over each aisle to tell you what items you can find there. There are labels on each and every product that explain to you the name of the item, what is in the food, and other nutritional values.

While taking a trip, whether it is across state lines or just across town, you will discover words. You have to read a street sign. Billboards catch your eye as you pass by. You cannot help but notice the business signs down the road.

Reading can be found everywhere. Even while watching a movie, words appear on the title screen, the introductory scroll to explain the history of what you are about to see, or the ending credits. As you are cooking, you encounter reading. Putting together a bicycle requires reading. Every part of our life involves words.

The fact that reading can be found outside of books opens up new possibilities to the ways you encourage your child to read. Cook a delicious recipe together. Plan a trip. Look up show times in the newspaper. Show your child that reading can be fun using a magazine that is full of the subject that interests them. Get them reading billboard signs. Create a game while traveling where everyone has to read road signs, business signs, and billboards to come up with the answers. Reading is everywhere, and it does not have to be boring. Text is everywhere, and we can use it to make reading come alive.