In THE READ-ALOUD HANDBOOK, Jim Trelease talks about the importance of reading. I highly recommend this book.
The following is something that he backs up extensively with research:
"The more you read, the more you know.
The more you know, the smarter you grow.
The smarter you are, the longer you stay in school.
The longer you stay in school, the more diplomas you earn and the longer you are employed--thus the more money you earn in a lifetime.
The more diplomas you earn, the higher your children's grades will be in school.
The more diplomas you earn, the longer you live."
So, I assume these are all things we'd like for our kids. In that case, when should we start reading to them? My hubby read to my belly when I was pregnant. And, guess what? A study, also cited from Jim Trelease's book, proves that reading before your baby is born is worthwhile.
Thirty-three pregnant women read one passage from a children's story 3 times a day for the last 6 weeks of pregnancy. After birth, babies were given pacifiers and headphones which played the same passage their mothers had read. The headphones, however, used a voice other than the mothers. And, I'm sure you can guess by now that the babies reacted differently to the passages they were familiar with than ones they were unfamiliar with. Their heart-rates slowed. The rhythm of familiar words had already begun to give the babies comfort and security.
The best way to make a lifelong reader/learner is to make reading a pleasant experience while they are still impressionable.
The following is something that he backs up extensively with research:
"The more you read, the more you know.
The more you know, the smarter you grow.
The smarter you are, the longer you stay in school.
The longer you stay in school, the more diplomas you earn and the longer you are employed--thus the more money you earn in a lifetime.
The more diplomas you earn, the higher your children's grades will be in school.
The more diplomas you earn, the longer you live."
So, I assume these are all things we'd like for our kids. In that case, when should we start reading to them? My hubby read to my belly when I was pregnant. And, guess what? A study, also cited from Jim Trelease's book, proves that reading before your baby is born is worthwhile.
Thirty-three pregnant women read one passage from a children's story 3 times a day for the last 6 weeks of pregnancy. After birth, babies were given pacifiers and headphones which played the same passage their mothers had read. The headphones, however, used a voice other than the mothers. And, I'm sure you can guess by now that the babies reacted differently to the passages they were familiar with than ones they were unfamiliar with. Their heart-rates slowed. The rhythm of familiar words had already begun to give the babies comfort and security.
The best way to make a lifelong reader/learner is to make reading a pleasant experience while they are still impressionable.
As I teacher and reading specialist I think your post is marvelous. How I wish all parents would take the time to read to and with their children! My parents read to me and I read to my children so I assumed all parents did this, but sadly I have learned that is not the case. Also, Jim Trelease's book is great. Recommended reading for all parents. Love your blog -- especially the book reviews!
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteYour blog came to my attention as I was searching for a place to find reviews on books that would help me find "clean reads." I have already read some of the books recommended here and appreciate the reviews. Thank you.
As to this post, I can attest that I loved to read as a child and, interestingly, have always done well in school. Not having any children to take top priority in my world, I have indeed earned many degrees. The rewards from doing so have indeed blessed my life greatly.
I shared this post (with reference to your blog)with others who may benefit from being reminded to read to children and the value of education.
Tahnk you.
I read this book a couple of months ago and thought it was great and agree with all it said.
ReplyDeleteSide note: How come your blog is not full version in Google reader??
Love, love, love this book!! It really inspired me to get serious about reading to my kids. Thanks for sharing.
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