Reading

Reading is an active process of constructing the meanings of words. Deliberate reading helps the reader direct information to the target and focuses their attention. Although the reasons for reading may vary, the main purpose of reading is to understand the text. Reading is a thinking process. This allows the reader to use what they may already know, also known as prior knowledge.

Reading is a powerful, fulfilling and rewarding activity. Books are not only a comfort and a friend, but they can also act as teachers, teaching children all about themselves, their world, and the cultures within. It has many benefits and should be recommended by all parents and teachers. Reading takes you out of your world and into another. In between the pages of the book, you can delve into the lives of fictional characters and learn about cultures that are very different from your own. You can also learn new words and phrases, experience different emotions, and acquire skills and knowledge. Because of the learning potential, the impact of reading on a child’s development is enormous, and several studies have highlighted its benefits. Teachers and parents are therefore in the best position to make sure that reading is an important part of children’s daily lives.

Benefits of Reading

Supporting cognitive development

Cognitive development refers to how we perceive and think about the world in terms of intelligence, reasoning, language development, and information processing. Reading to children gives us a deeper understanding of their world and fills their brains with background knowledge. This acquired background knowledge is then used to understand what you see, hear, and read to support your cognitive development.

Develop empathy

When we read a book, we put ourselves in the story in front of us. This allows you to develop empathy as you experience the lives of other characters and identify with their feelings. Children can use this understanding to empathize with the real world with other people. In addition, children develop a better understanding of emotions, which helps them understand their own emotions and those of others. This helps their social development dramatically.

Get a deeper understanding

Books take us everywhere to another city, to another world. By reading, children learn about people, places, and events that they would otherwise not be able to learn. This allows children to gain a deeper understanding of the world around them and cultures that are different from their own.

Build stronger relationships

There is no doubt that when parents read books with their children on a regular basis, it strengthens their bond with them. Reading Aloud offers parents the opportunity to have regular shared events that both parents and children can look forward to. Moreover, it instills in children a sense of attention, love, and validation. This is the key to nurturing and happiness.