When children only practice their skills in school, they may associate reading with work instead of fun. Snuggling up at home in Crystal, MN, and enjoying a story with your child can create not only a love of learning but also a strong foundation for success. Read aloud strategies for students don’t have to be complicated to be beneficial.

What are the Benefits of Reading Aloud?

Despite technology and new teaching methods, sharing stories aloud is one of the most important activities parents can do with their children. This quality time spent together with no television or other distractions can strengthen your relationship and help them develop their communication, social, and interpersonal skills. Additional benefits include:

Stronger Vocabulary

Young children learn language skills primarily through listening. When they hear new words read to them in different situations, it builds their vocabulary. As they get older and can read for themselves, it creates a stronger connection between the spoken and printed word. With practice, they begin recognizing the difference between printed text and the spoken word.

Sharper Focus

When reading aloud, children put their energy into the task at hand. This focus strengthens verbal and mental skills, increasing their attention span. The more often they read aloud, the more they exercise the connection between the mind and their voice, resulting in greater cohesiveness when communicating thoughts and relating past events. By speaking aloud, children learn the potency of words and often understand and engage with the material more deeply.

Strengthen Comprehension

Well-written books expose children to sophisticated language. When they read consistently, they learn how to apply their cognitive abilities to understand the text. Emotion often comes with understanding. By reading out loud together, your child may feel more comfortable discussing their feelings.

Tips on Reading Out Loud

Although reading aloud at any time can be beneficial, here are some tips that may help enhance the experience.

Schedule Reading Time

Make reading part of your daily routine, whether it is in the afternoon or just before bedtime. Not only will your child look forward to the time they spend with you, but it also sends the message that reading is important and has value.

Choose Books Wisely

Just because they are written for children doesn’t mean the storylines are sloppy or boring. Many authors write age-appropriate entertainment, while others use stories to help deal with various issues, from anger-management and abuse to handling sadness about the death of a loved one. Reading aloud can bring out laughter and joy as well as more serious emotions.

Make it Interactive

Instead of just reading the words, encourage your child to get involved in the story. Describing pictures, making predictions, and talking about issues addressed can help promote discussion. This can make them more comfortable having conversations with you and others throughout the rest of their lives. Allow time to discuss the book and what interested them the most.

Praise Often

If the book is frustrating or uses language unfamiliar to your child, be patient and encouraging. Let them know making mistakes is ok; they are part of learning and understanding. When a story catches their attention and imagination, they may want to ask questions as they go. This can help them expand cognitive skills quickly. Praising them on their thoughtfulness and asking questions of your own can make them more open to critical thinking and in-depth conversations.

Beacon Academy Charter School

Our small class sizes, personalized instruction, and academic support provide students with a well-rounded education. Data-driven curriculum and highly qualified teachers help children build a strong foundation in learning that can serve them throughout their lives. Contact us today to learn more about our Crystal, MN, programs, and whether our community-built culture is right for your child.

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