Some children get nervous about reading out loud, especially if they don’t consider themselves strong readers. However, reading aloud and being read to have many benefits for children. Reading is often a solitary activity, but when children are still learning, it’s best to let them share the experience with others every once in a while. Here are some of the reasons why reading aloud is so important for developing minds.
Building Vocabulary
Reading out loud can help students learn new words, both what they mean and how to pronounce them correctly. Having your child read books out loud that are just beyond their reading level can help them expand their vocabulary. They will have an opportunity to ask you what words mean, where during quiet reading, they may skip the words and move on.
Learning Listening Skills
Whether your child is reading aloud or listening to someone else read, their mind processes what they’re hearing. Over time, this can help them build listening skills. They also have the opportunity to absorb the information more deeply by incorporating multiple senses when they’re reading and saying the words out loud.
Improving Memory
Another benefit of incorporating multiple senses in reading is improved absorption of the material. Children remember words and stories better when they read them out loud. Saying words out loud also helps with rote memorization, which can improve skills like spelling and recalling information.
Bringing People Together
Reading aloud among family members or friends creates a communal experience. Everyone participates in a shared reading and storytelling exercise. After the reading session, the conversation will naturally turn to what they just read. Everyone can discuss how they felt and what they thought about the material.
Helping Struggling Readers
Children who struggle with reading can benefit from reading out loud, especially if others around them are reading aloud, as well. They can gain fluency in reading by practicing and listening to how others navigate the task. If your child struggles with reading, consider practicing with them.
Reading aloud can have many benefits for children, especially those who are new to reading. Our Orlando private school located in the Diocese of Orlando hopes to instill a joy of reading in all of our students. St. Charles Borromeo is more than a place to learn; it’s a diverse community. Our staff is committed to proclaiming the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ. We believe in teaching the whole child and want students to love learning, helping them grow into well-rounded, contributing members of society. Learn more about us by contacting us here.
