Skills and More
The Importance of Reading
Evidence suggests that children who read for enjoyment regularly not only perform better in reading tests than those who don’t, but also develop a broader vocabulary, increased general knowledge and a better understanding of the wider world. Reading for pleasure is more likely to determine whether a child does well at school than their social or economic background.
Building vocabulary and understanding
Reading teaches us to listen and understand the world we live in and is so much more than trying to decode what is written on the page. It also helps to build vocabulary as each book will offer a wide range of words and stories.
Even if your child doesn’t understand every word, they’ll hear new sounds, words and phrases which they can then try out, copying what they have heard.
What difference can I make as a parent?
You can make a huge difference! Parents are the most important educators in a child’s life – it’s never too early to start reading together.
As children start to learn to read at school, you can play an important role in helping to keep them interested in books. Find out what interests them, help them to find books that will be engaging and fun, and spend time reading the books they bring home from school together.
Benefits of reading with your child
Sharing a book with your child allows you to share adventures and experiences in the safe world of the book. It allows you to ask questions, talk about what has happened and decide what you think together.
Sharing a book can be a bonding experience and for young children, cuddling up with a parent to read a book can be a special time