Why and how should you read stories to your child?

There are many benefits to shared reading, so don’t hesitate to take the time to read
stories together! This simple activity will be a source of great pleasure and undeniable benefits.

Reading stories to develop language

Stories use a rich and varied vocabulary, more precise than the one we use in everyday life. Therefore, children develop their language and strengthen their comprehension skills. Little by little, they start to enjoy inventing their own stories! Reading a book to your child is an excellent way of developing their language and creativity.

Discovering the written word

By reading a story to your child, you are introducing them to the written word. They discover what a book is and gradually understand that the words printed correspond to those spoken. This is the first step towards learning to read!

Read: 5 Strategies to Stimulate Children’s Language Development

To experience emotions

Familiar or imaginary situations, worrying characters or reassuring figures, joy, fear or anger: by discovering a variety of stories, your child will recognise certain experiences and emotions that he or she has experienced. They will be able to name them and understand that they are not the only ones to experience them. Reassured, they’ll be better equipped to face up to difficulties!

Learning to pay attention

While overexposure to screens can lead to attention problems, shared reading will help your child to develop concentration!  They will develop active listening skills and be able to stay attentive for longer. This is a fundamental skill for developing memory and preparing for a wide range of learning activities.

To share a moment of complicity

By reading together, you can create shared memories and enjoy a sweet moment. You can build a bond with your child by being available and interested. To vary the pleasures and broaden the experience, choose an audio book to listen to together! These are all great opportunities to talk and share quality time.

How to read stories to your child?

Sit down in a quiet place and establish a ritual by reading a story every evening.

Let the youngest children handle the book and accept interruptions – the most important thing is to enjoy the time together. Adapt flexibly to your child’s needs, making exceptions and changing the text if you feel this is necessary. And don’t hesitate to read the same stories over and over again, to increase the pleasure tenfold!