Reading is important and essential at CCS. From our two-year-old program to our elementary classes, books are a part of every school day. Have you ever wondered what you could do at home to raise a family of readers? Here are some tips we've learned over the years. Research has shown that simply having books around the home that are within reach significantly increases a child’s likelihood of becoming a reader, even if they never open them. Children are even more likely to become readers if they observe their parents reading. But, most importantly and above all else, children are most likely to become readers if they are read to, out loud. In his book The Read-Aloud Handbook, Jim Trelease says, “The single most important activity for building the knowledge required for eventual success is reading aloud to children.” Reading aloud even one day per week from infancy to age 10 has been shown to increase standardized test scores. Reading aloud builds vocabulary and fluency, creates background knowledge, demonstrates syntax (arrangement of words to create a well-formed sentence), and allows the child to practice reading comprehension without having to focus on decoding the passage if they were reading it themselves.
That’s all wonderful, but reading aloud to your children offers deeper, richer, benefits beyond academic success. Reading aloud fosters lasting and meaningful connections between parent and child. Reading builds community and camaraderie within our homes and schools. In our busy, productivity-obsessed world, what a delight it is to STOP and SIT and SHARE a story. In her book The Read-Aloud Family, Sarah Mackenzie says, “When we read with our kids, we step outside the noise, the hustle, the friction, and for just a few minutes, we are completely and totally present with them.” Yes please!
Stories teach us about life. Good stories demonstrate virtues like courage and hope and make them attractive. Good stories nurture empathy and compassion in their readers. In her book Mackenzie also says, “If you want a child to know the truth, tell him the truth. If you want a child to love the truth, tell him a story.” In all four gospel accounts we see our ultimate example, Jesus, using many stories to teach his disciples and followers.
Finally, reading aloud fosters a love of reading. Our children are watching us, and fortunately (or sometimes unfortunately) more is caught than taught. When we read aloud to our children they are catching from us that reading is enjoyable and important, which instills in them the desire to read themselves. This may sound like a lot to take on. If reading aloud is not part of your family's regular rhythm, start where you are. Aim to read 1-2 picture books per week. Work your way up to 15-20 minutes of read aloud time per day. So put aside that laptop or that laundry basket, grab a book, cozy up with the ones you love, and embark on the wonderful journey of reading. I promise you won’t regret it!
Book Resources:
The Read-Aloud Family by Sarah Mackenzie
Honey for a Child’s Heart by Gladys Hunt
The Read-Aloud Handbook by Jim Trelease
Websites with great booklists:
https://readaloudrevival.com/recommends/
https://www.lifeabundantlyblog.com/lifeabundantlyblog/2018/3/25/107-books-to-read-before-age-7
