Why it’s important to read with your kids

This means potentially missing out on an opportunity to bond and building a lifelong love of literature. Whether your child is a toddler or a teenager, the benefits of reading out loud continue well beyond the early years.

Why reading out loud matters 

When you read to your children, you do more than tell a story. You provide comfort, build their vocabulary and help them develop empathy. Listening to stories allows children to experience emotions and situations beyond their day-to-day, which helps with mental and emotional development. Reading aloud also help kids to become lifelong readers – which can also improve academic performance across lots different subjects, not just English. 

Winning the battle against screen time 

In an era where screen time often dominates, books can seem like a tough sell. But reading out loud can be a powerful tool to reclaim some of that time. By creating a special time for reading each day, you’re not just limiting screen time but replacing it with an enriching, educational, and enjoyable activity. Books offer a depth of experience that screens can’t, as well as a shared adventure that can bring your family closer together. 

Becoming your family’s book matchmaker 

Finding the right books to read out loud can feel overwhelming with so many options. Start by considering your child’s interests – are they fascinated by space, animals, or fantasy worlds? Your local librarian or online resources like The Reading Agency and Chatterbooks can be great for finding books that match your family’s tastes. Booktrust has reading lists grouped by age, so start here if you’re really stuck for inspiration. Once you find that perfect book, your children may start to look forward to reading time, eager to dive into the next chapter! 

Engaging toddlers and teens alike 

It’s not always easy to keep a toddler still or a teenager interested, but there are ways to make reading time enjoyable for everyone. For wiggly toddlers, choose books with lots of pictures and rhythm to keep their attention. Don’t worry if they want to move around – what matters is that they’re listening and enjoying the experience. For teenagers, involve them in choosing the books and think of the kinds of movies they like. A lot of young adult (YA) books have movie tie-ins and will be a popular choice for your teen. Make it a shared experience where everyone can discuss their reading choices. 

Creating a book club atmosphere at home 

One of the best ways to make reading a fun, shared activity is by turning your family into a mini book club. After reading a book, sit down together to discuss it. You can use simple questions like, ​“What was your favourite part?” or ​“What would you have done in that character’s place?” These discussions deepen your children’s understanding of the book and give them a platform to express their thoughts and feelings. 

Making reading a daily habit 

You might be wondering how to fit reading aloud into your busy schedule. The truth is, you don’t need to read for hours on end. Even 15 minutes a day can make a huge difference. The key is consistency, whether it’s before bed, during breakfast, or on a lazy Sunday afternoon. And if you’re not always available, consider listening to an audiobook together – it’s still a shared experience. Audiobooks can be a great way to enjoy a story when you’re on the go or when you need a break from reading out loud. 

The lasting impact of reading together 

The benefits of reading aloud extend far beyond literacy. Families who read together often grow closer, with shared stories becoming part of their family culture. By making reading aloud a regular part of your family’s routine, you’re not just helping your children with their learning – you’re building memories, finding out more about each other, and instilling a love of reading that will last a lifetime. 

So why not pick up a book, gather your family, and start a new tradition today. 

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