It’s summer time, a perfect time for parents to encourage our kids to read. Reading is fundamental in today’s society and encompasses all aspects of life. Words, whether written or spoken form the basis of our human existence. While the act of reading is important for living, the love of reading is one of the most important skills parents can teach their children. Yet, I have found that most children today are not interested in this simple act.

Recent studies show that there is a clear link between literacy skills and numeracy skills and that reading is fundamental for increased student achievement. Student achievement improves when comprehension skills are increased. This is critical for all subjects.

The Significance of Reading

1. Reading develops verbal and writing skills. It also increases vocabulary and hence the ability to understand what is being spoken as well as to providing a means of expressing oneself. It vastly improves spelling.

2. Reading boosts the imagination. Your world is expanded as you discover different places, cultures and types of people. You can enter an imaginary world which sparks creativity.

3. Reading increases the intellect. Books offer a wealth of information that can make you smarter. You learn about history, cultures and places that you may not be able to learn about in school.

4. Reading is a stress buster. It is an excellent way to unwind after school. When we read, we do so in silence. This calms the mind. Reading an age appropriate work of fiction provides relaxation and can help you to fall asleep easier.

5. Reading improves focus and concentration. When reading, one has to sit down with a book, undisturbed. You are usually engaged for long periods of time. This intensifies your attention span.

Reading to your Kids

Children are not born readers; they must be made into readers. While there are no guarantees, parents who introduce reading to their young children are more likely to be successful in raising lifelong readers.

Reading introduces children to stories and to the wealth of information that can be found in books. It also accentuates that from books, knowledge can be acquired, different emotions can be experienced, and fun can be had.

Reading Aloud

Reading aloud to young and older kids, has the added advantage of fostering a strong bond between parent and child. Be sure to read in an engaging manner that entertains and stimulates your child’s mind. Reading aloud is the best way for children to develop grammatical understanding and word mastery.

A child’s reading level does not equate with his listening level until about age 12, so reading to older kids is beneficial. Reading aloud a book that is meant for an 11-year old to an eight-year-old is perfectly acceptable and desirable. It stimulates their growth and development. Reading books that not only entertain but also teach valuable life lessons is an added bonus. Make sure to ask probing questions about the stories you have read. This will enhance their critical thinking skills.

When parents read aloud to their children, they model how to read language as they pause at commas and full stops. The modulation of their voice also changes as they read questions or exclamations. When you come across less familiar words, encourage the use of the dictionary (even if you know the meaning). Befriending the dictionary will serve your children well throughout their life.

Expanding vocabulary

Nowadays, many students seem to be plagued by limited vocabulary. This could be attributed to less time spent reading and more time using technology such as phones and laptops. Parents must set limits on screen time in order to foster a good reading routine.

Studies repeatedly show that students with a large vocabulary do better than children with a limited vocabulary. This means that the more words children hear and understand, the better they will do in school. This is a great incentive for us as parents to read aloud to our children regardless of their age.

Making Reading a habit

Making reading customary takes a while to get established, but it can be done with the support of parents. Take 10 minutes each day and commit to reading with your child. This is a perfect bedtime routine. Help your child to select an enjoyable core of books. Make it a family affair and utilise your community library to search for stories of interest.

Most importantly, parents: be a role model; let kids see you read for pleasure.

Dr Karla Hylton is a graduate of the biotechnology programme at The University of the West Indies. She operates Bio and Chem Tutoring, a Kingston-based teaching programme which specialises in secondary level biology and chemistry. Reach her at 404.4506, biochemtutor100@gmail.com, or www.khylton.com