Why you should read aloud to your child

I recently read a statistic at my local library and was surprised to learn that 35% of children arrive to kindergarten unprepared to learn. The report of the Commission on Reading states that "the single most important activity for building the knowledge required for eventual success in reading is reading aloud to children."

In the Read-Aloud Handbook, Jim Trelease presents the research on reading aloud to children. His findings reveal that for over 25 years, worksheets have not worked. There is no correlation between the number of worksheets a student does in school and how good a reader the child eventually becomes. He presents an enormous amount of research that clearly shows that reading aloud is the best thing parents can do to help their children become avid and strong readers. Reading aloud also helps children improve their vocabulary, spelling, grammar, attention span, comprehension, and listening skills.

This should make you want to grab a book and cuddle with your child. Remember you are investing your time in his future. Enjoy this time together!