Here at The Key Educational Trust, we're passionate about igniting a love of reading in our students.
But with the ever-changing world of technology, keeping children engaged with books can be a challenge. Thankfully, research is constantly evolving, offering us valuable insights on how to nurture young readers.
The Power of Parental Passion: A recent study by BookTrust revealed a strong correlation between parental enjoyment of reading and children's reading habits. Children whose parents or carers demonstrate a love for reading are significantly more likely to become enthusiastic readers themselves New research from BookTrust reveals the impact of parental reading enjoyment on children's reading habits, [BookTrust, 2023].
Representation Matters: Children thrive on seeing themselves reflected in the stories they read. Diverse books that celebrate different cultures, backgrounds, and abilities can spark a child's imagination and make them feel valued. Let's ensure our bookshelves are brimming with inclusive stories that resonate with every child.
Reading Aloud: A Gift That Keeps on Giving: The benefits of reading aloud to children of all ages are well-documented. Research continues to highlight the importance of shared reading in developing language skills, vocabulary, and comprehension [Children's Reading for Pleasure: Progress, Problems and Practical Solutions, Farshore, 2023].
Beyond the Classroom Walls: While schools play a vital role in fostering reading skills, literacy development extends far beyond the classroom walls. Encouraging children to visit libraries, participate in book clubs, or even listen to audiobooks can all contribute to their reading journey.
Making it Fun! Learning shouldn't feel like a chore, and reading is no exception! Incorporate games, puzzles, and interactive activities related to stories to keep children engaged. Let them choose books based on their interests, and celebrate their reading successes, big and small.
By staying informed about the latest research and implementing these strategies, we can empower every child to become a confident and enthusiastic reader. Remember, reading opens doors to a world of knowledge, imagination, and endless possibilities.