Sam's parents make bedtime a positive experience. They read or sing together each night. Sam likes having books read again and again. He is learning to read to his parents.

Grandparents and aunts bring books. Sam enjoys having them read. When he goes to bed, everyone says, "Good night, Sam. We love you."

About the Author

Daphne Harris Dews lives in Virginia Beach, VA. She is retired from Norfolk Public Schools, Norfolk, VA. She is a graduate of Norfolk Division of Virginia State College, now Norfolk State University, with a BS degree in elementary education. She earned an MS degree in education at Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA.

An advocate of parental engagement, Daphne feels one of the most important things parents can do is provide positive early learning activities for their children. She feels the long-term impact on student achievement is immeasurable.

A member of Virginia Beach Writers, Daphne enjoys writing about family experiences. "Good Night, Sam. We Love You." is based on routines practiced by the parents of her grandson, Samuel. She is also the author of Nine Girls, No Boys, Stories of Life in Rural Virginia.