The importance of reading from a young age

Reading is one of the most important skills that children can learn. It is the foundation for academic success and lifelong learning. Reading also helps children to develop their imagination, creativity, and empathy. As Mary Pope Osborne stated, “Reading is a passport to countless adventures”.

We are all aware of how important reading is. Some of the most important benefits include:

• Language development: Reading to children exposes them to new words and ways of using language. This helps them to develop their vocabulary and grammar skills.

• Cognitive development: Reading helps to stimulate children's brains and promote cognitive development. Reading exposes children to new concepts and ideas, and it helps them to learn how to think critically and solve problems.

• Academic success: Children who are read to from a young age are more likely to succeed academically. This is because they have a strong foundation in language and literacy skills. Reading also helps children to develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for success in school.

• Imagination and creativity: Reading helps to spark children's imagination and creativity. When children listen to stories, they are able to create their own mental images of the characters and settings. This helps them to develop their creativity and problem-solving skills.

• Empathy: Reading helps children to learn about different cultures and perspectives. This helps them to develop empathy and understanding for others. Reading also helps children to learn about different emotions and how to cope with them.

Facts about reading

• Reading to a child in an interactive way raises their IQ by over 6 points.

• 15 minutes of reading each day can equal 1 million words per year.

• Children who read 3000+ words per day score in the top 2% in standardized tests.

How to inspire your children to read and be read to

There are many different ways to read to young children. The most important thing is to make reading a fun and enjoyable experience for both you and your child. Here are a few tips:

• Choose books that are appropriate for your child's age and interests.

• Find a quiet and comfortable place to read – make this part of your daily routine!

• Point to the words as you read them.

• Use different voices for the different characters.

• Ask your child questions about the story.

• Share the reading – take turns!

• Talk about the pictures in the book.

Tips for encouraging a love of reading

If you make books and reading a part of your daily routine, your child will be much more likely to want to read at every opportunity. Having short chats about books in a positive manner will give them the inspiration to want to read on a regular basis. Additionally, ensuring that your child has access to books – and books they want to read – is paramount. There are a range of books available in paper and online. Giving your children the choice of fiction, non-fiction or even comic books will make reading a more enjoyable experience for them.

Reading at The British School of Tashkent

Our libraries are packed full of a range of children’s books. Our weekly library lessons try to inspire the children to read at every opportunity and the children get to read independently, with friends or with adults. We also encourage the children to check out books that they will adore reading at home. In addition to our library lessons, we have phonics and guided reading lessons which give children the ability to decode and read books independently. Our aim, as a school, is to foster a lifelong love of learning; reading is a huge part of this.