There is much research supporting the idea that there is great benefit in reading aloud to your teenagers. For some reason, parents still seem to think that this is something you need only do with younger children. The benefits listed below may change your mind, especially if your child is not yet an avid reader.
Reading aloud to teens has the following benefits:
- Positive modeling of word pronunciation
- Modeling the usage of tone, intonation and expression
- Builds vocabulary
- Improves comprehension skills
- Improves listening skills
- It is bonding time
- It helps with discussions around difficult issues
- It sparks curiosity
- It contributes to a thirst for learning
- It is a way to work through the classics with older kids & introduce different genres
- It is enjoyable and relaxing for both parent and child
If more parents read aloud to their children there would be less need for services such as reading therapy and literacy / language support.
Further reading
- Why It’s Still Important to Read Aloud With Your Teen by Laura Lambert
- 24 Books to Read Aloud with Preteens and Teenagers by Bookity Split
- What is literacy? by Lianne Bantjes
- Why I read aloud to my teenagers by Giulia Rhodes
- Why you CAN’T skip reading to your child for 20 minutes per day by Lianne Bantjes
- Develop a culture of reading in your home by Lianne Bantjes
- BOOKS TO READ ALOUD TO TEENS by What Do We Do All Day
- What are the PROS and CONS of reading to your child daily? by Lianne Bantjes
- Favorite Read Alouds for Teen Boys by Home Grown Learners
- Literacy & Reading Intervention by Lianne Bantjes
To explore working with Lianne in Randburg / Sandton and other areas in Johannesburg, contact her for a consultation to discuss how she can assist you.