The national reading days: This is how you make reading aloud a party.

The national reading days: This is how you make reading aloud a party.

The national reading days are underway. This annual period is all about reading and is meant to show the joy and importance of reading aloud to young children. Because reading aloud is not only fun, it is also very important for language development, vocabulary and imagination of children.

Why reading aloud is so important

Reading aloud helps children learn new words, understand stories and concentrate better. It is also a nice moment of calm and attention between parent and child. Even for older children, (shared) reading remains valuable: it encourages a love of reading and increases interest in books.

Tips to read aloud well (and fun)

Reading aloud does not have to be perfect. It is mainly about enjoying it together. These tips can help:

• Choose a book that suits your child. Does the story match your child’s age and interests? Then attention will last longer.
• Make it lively. Use different voices, facial expressions or gestures. That makes the story extra fun.
• Ask questions. Ask during the story what your child thinks will happen or what he or she thinks of a character.
• Take your time. No need to rush. Just sitting together on the couch with a book is enough.
• Let your child join in. Let your child point at pictures, finish words or read a piece by themselves.

Places where you can read aloud (together)

During the national reading days there are extra activities at many places:

• Libraries often organize reading moments, sometimes with well-known (local) readers.
• Schools and childcare pay extra attention to reading aloud in the class or group.
• Bookstores regularly have special reading corners or activities for children.
• At home remains of course the most familiar place. A fixed reading moment before bed or after school works well for many families.