By PIC Staff
As summer approaches are you dreading the anticipated arguments as you try to encourage your reluctant reader to enjoy summer reading? The responses of “but its vacation!” I’d rather do……”, and the most painful one for a parent to hear “I’m no good at it, why bother?”
Trying to explain to a child that the best way to improve their ability to read is by doing more of it is a hard concept for adults to understand so expecting our kids to understand is probably not worth our breath. So instead, how about trying some new methods. It might be counterintuitive to think that listening is going to improve their reading but evidence shows that audio books offer great benefits when it come to improving a child’s reading development. And when you combine reading with audio books it also:
- Boosts Literacy
- Enhances comprehension and retention
- Increases vocabulary
Audio books are also much more accessible in today’s world. Your local library very likely has an app through which you can “borrow” audio books. Hoopla and Libby are two very popular and easy to use apps. You can borrow a hard copy and an audiobook for reading and listening at the same time. This allows for additional discussion about the book because a narrators use of different voices and intonations can make a big difference in how the book comes to life in a reader’s imagination. Following along with the book helps with word recognition.
If you use an audio book at the same time you’re reading it can also boost literacy by improving fluency and comprehension. It will support children who wish to read above their reading level and is helpful to children with dyslexia to access content. It boosts imagination and is a “screen-free” activity that many parents are seeking. And it’s not always necessary to have both the hard copy and the audiobook. Try going between the two methods to encourage reading time. Audiobooks means reading can be done while riding in the car, doing chores or playing in the yard. And most importantly reading audiobooks can encourage a lifelong love of reading!