Why Reading with Your Kids is the Greatest Gift You Can Give Them

In a world dominated by technology, with voice-activated devices and instant answers at our fingertips, you might wonder why teaching kids to read still matters. After all, by the time they join the workforce, they may never need to type long reports or sift through dense manuals. So, why should you bother reading with your children?

Because reading offers something technology can’t replicate: it shapes the way we think, communicate, and connect.

The Power of the Written Word

Spoken and written words serve different purposes. Spoken words often arise from emotion, while written words allow us to process, reflect, and communicate with intention. Writing slows us down and engages our logical mind, helping us express thoughts with clarity. This reflective process is a key life skill that reading nurtures in young minds.

Books, particularly traditionally published ones, are masterpieces of crafted language. Every word is intentional, designed to inspire thought, emotion, and understanding. When children read, they are exposed to the best examples of communication—tools they’ll carry into every aspect of life.

Why Reading Matters

Reading isn’t just about literacy; it’s about equipping your child to navigate the world with confidence and empathy. Studies show:

1. Cognitive Development: Reading for pleasure contributes more to cognitive growth than a parent’s level of education.
2. Achievement: Regular readers at age 10 perform better in vocabulary, spelling, and even maths by age 16.
3. Career Success: Adults with proficient literacy skills earn more and experience greater career satisfaction.
4. Emotional Well-being: Reading reduces loneliness, improves focus, and boosts confidence, empathy, and overall quality of life.

Encouraging a love of reading isn’t just about giving your child a skill—it’s about fostering resilience, creativity, and a lifelong thirst for knowledge.

How to Instill a Love of Reading

Making reading an enjoyable experience can turn it into a lifelong habit. Here’s how:

1. Create a Reading Environment: Set up a cozy nook with bookshelves filled with diverse genres.
2. Make Books Special: Encourage family members to gift meaningful books for birthdays or milestones.
3. Explore Together: Visit bookshops and libraries to let your child choose stories that spark their interest.
4. Attend Events: Participate in storytime sessions or immersive experiences, like walking through a story with the Museum of Walking.
5. Share the Joy: Read together during downtime—at appointments, in the car, or before bed. Audiobooks are also a fantastic way to share stories.
6. Family Book Clubs: Connect with relatives by reading the same book and discussing it, whether in person or online.

The Lasting Impact

Children who develop a love of reading are better equipped to face life’s challenges. They articulate their thoughts clearly, empathize with others, and engage with their community. Reading together isn’t just an activity; it’s a gift that strengthens your bond and empowers your child to flourish.

So, take the time to read with your kids. In those quiet moments, you’re not just sharing stories—you’re shaping their future.