WORLD Read Aloud Day, 1 February, is a good time to ponder on the countless benefits of such a simple activity.
According to the organisation READ Educational Trust, while children whose parents frequently spend time conversing with them already have a head start, it’s only in books, newspapers and magazines that enriching vocabulary is seen. A child who hears these types of words has a giant advantage. Reading aloud also increases a child’s attention span, and when you read aloud, you’re whetting a child’s appetite for reading. Expecting your child to grow into being an avid reader is wishful thinking if they see no one reading at home.
In an age where the average teen spends 90 minutes a day sending text messages, it is absolutely vital to keep the habit of reading aloud, alive. There is evidence that we don’t remember information as well when we read it on a screen, so parents and caregivers have a huge responsibility to encourage a love of books and be that priceless reading role model.
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READ Educational Trust has a lifelong focus of promoting literacy in a country where 78 per cent of Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning in any language, according to the recently released PIRLS Study (Progress In International Reading Literacy, 2016). In this context, the ‘Read Aloud Magic’ sets, launched alongside Reading Matters, is a vital tool in encouraging reading aloud, at home and at school.
‘Read Aloud Magic’ sets are available online. Each of three box sets contains 12 beautifully designed books filled with enchanting, adventure-filled stories set in Africa. These stories are all set in Africa, and revolve around children and animals discovering the world in which they live. Set A is suitable for children aged four to seven, while five to eight year olds will enjoy set B. Set C is aimed at children aged six to nine. These sets are a priceless investment, not only in terms of serving to build your child’s vocabulary, but as far as spending quality time with your little ones goes.
Each set may be purchased via https://www.thereadshop.co.za/, on www.takealot.com or directly from Reading Matters. Contact 087 237 7781 or 0800 11 65 35 or email: readmat@read.co.za.
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