Reading aloud together can boost social, emotional, and mental health! Use reading to start conversations or tackle big emotions. Reading aloud together can explore particular emotions that help children learn empathy or even acknowledge, accept, or voice their own feelings. Keisha Scribe, PHD, an early childhood literacy consultant says reading aloud can help people with stress management, hope and resilience.
(https://www.npr.org/2021/10/01/1041859001/reading-aloud-benefits-childrens-literacy)
Here are 5 more benefits of Reading Aloud:
1. Improves Cognitive Development – which stimulates problem solving brain functions, communication, imagination and emotional development
2. Increases Vocabulary – introduces and familiarizes them with new words
3. Boosts Memory – Repetition and retention helps overall capacity for learning
4. Enhances Focus – directed attention encourages better retention
5. Strengthens Your Bond – relaxing, enjoyable together time, can also teach respect by listening when someone is talking, or by taking turns reading
(Source – https://www.archwaycommunities.org/5-benefits-of-reading-to-children/)
BONUS: Reading aloud together is NOT just for our youngest children. Try a family read-aloud night with your middle and high school-aged kids where you take turns passing the book around.
