By Harmel Deanne Codi, JD, MBA
“There are many little ways to enlarge your child’s world. Love of books is the best of all.” – Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.
When you revisit the aisle of childhood memories, do you recall the magic of a parent or loved one reading to you? The melodic rhythm of words, the vivid illustrations, the crescendos of adventure and mystery—all these elements combine to open a portal into the enchanting realm of books. But does being read have a more profound impact on a child’s relationship with reading? Absolutely! Let’s delve into how being read can foster a lasting fondness for literature.
Building an Emotional Connection with Stories
Being read to is more than just about the words or the story. It’s about the shared emotions, the laughter, the suspense, and the bonding. This emotional tapestry is interwoven with the tale, creating a positive, sentimental association with books. For instance, “Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak isn’t just a story about a boy’s imaginative journey. When read aloud, the roaring of the wild things, Max’s declaration of being the king, and the eventual longing for home become shared emotions, making the story a cherished memory.
Introducing the Pleasure of Narrative Flow
Listening to a story cultivates an appreciation for language’s rhythm, tone, and cadence. Children begin to relish the flow of words, the structure of sentences, and the musicality inherent in narratives.
Quotation: “Books are a uniquely portable magic.” – Stephen King. And when introduced early, this magic becomes an inseparable part of one’s life.
Stoking Curiosity
Children are naturally curious; stories provide diverse scenarios, characters, and worlds. Being read consistently feeds this curiosity, and over time, the child starts seeking out books to satiate their thirst for knowledge, adventure, and imagination. For example, After listening to “The Magic School Bus” series, many children become eager to explore more about science, space, and nature, turning to books to fuel their curiosity.
Fostering Identification and Empathy
Stories introduce children to many characters – each with quirks, challenges, dreams, and emotions. Children learn to identify with these characters by being read to, fostering empathy and understanding. This connection often drives them to seek out more stories, to live more lives, and to understand diverse perspectives. For instance, “Matilda” by Roald Dahl is not just about a girl with telekinetic powers. For many children, it’s about feeling understood, the love for reading, and finding one’s place in the world. Such connections drive the hunger for more relatable tales.
Establishing a Reading Routine
Consistency is key. When children are read to regularly, it becomes a treasured part of their routine. As they grow, this routine naturally evolves into individual reading, ensuring the love for books remains intact.
Quotation: “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” – Frederick Douglass. And this freedom often starts on the laps of our loved ones, with stories shared and cherished.
In Conclusion
The act of reading to a child goes beyond education. It’s the gentle planting of a seed, which, when nurtured with love, attention, and consistency, blossoms into a lifelong love for literature. Every story you narrate to every parent, guardian, teacher, or loved one is a gift of love, wonder, and freedom.
References:
Onassis, Jacqueline Kennedy. Personal reflections on child-rearing and books.
Sendak, Maurice. “Where the Wild Things Are.”
King, Stephen. “On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft.”
Cole, Joanna, and Degen, Bruce. “The Magic School Bus” series.
Dahl, Roald. “Matilda.”
Douglass, Frederick. Speeches and autobiographical writings.
