Why Read Aloud?

The benefits of reading aloud are well-documented! Here are some important things to remember!

• This is a great time to bond with your family! To laugh, talk, snuggle and enjoy an activity together!

• Reading aloud gives our kids access to material that they may not read on their own, and introduces them to strong new vocabulary. Don't underestimate the ability of young children to grasp and use more sophisticated vocabulary. They can learn and understand more than you may expect. Large vocabularies have a strong connection to academic performance!

• When you read aloud, you provide a strong model of fluency. Read with lots of great expression and excitement to show your love of reading.

• Spend time talking about the themes and lessons of the book and what the book can teach us about each other and the world.

• Kids are never too old to enjoy being read to! Even as adults, we still enjoying listening to a good story.

• Building habits of daily reading will lead to increased volume of reading long term, which also is predictor of academic success.

Jim Trelease, author of The Read Aloud Handbook, offers lots of great tips reading aloud at home, too!

http://www.trelease-on-reading.com/rah-ch4.html