What Is The Big Deal About Read Alouds?

Some of my fondest memories as a child are of listening to read aloud's.... my parents reading many, many stories aloud and my favorite teacher reading Little House On The Prarie books aloud to the class. Think back to when you were a child...was one of your favorite books one that was read aloud to you?? Recently, I ran across an article that talked about a dad that read aloud to his daughter every day of her life until she entered college. This daily practice played a huge part in his daughter's college success...she graduated with a 3.94. Our goal should be how can we raise "life-long" readers. Based on research  done by the U.S. Department of Education, "the single most important activity for building the knowledge required for eventual success in reading is reading aloud to children.”

So, what can we do to make the daily read alouds meaningful experiences....

(1)  Practice reading the book to yourself before you read the story aloud to your child.  This will allow you   to pronounce the words correctly, figure out the rhythm/pattern of the story, and understand the characters/dialogue of the story.
(2)   Read aloud with expression.  Take a few minutes and listen to your own voice--absolutely no monotone/ boring voices. Enjoy yourself....your child will always remember these times with you!
(3)  One of the most common mistakes in reading aloud—is reading too fast. Remember that this is an enjoyable time...allow your child time to look carefully at the pictures or to build their own mental pictures in their head.
(4)   For younger children select books that have rhyme, rhythm and/or books with repetition.
(5)  Older children can self select longer stories or chapter books based on their interests or popular series.
(6)  Set a goal to read every day aloud for a minimum of at least 10 minutes. Build your read aloud time into your schedule so that it becomes part of the family routine. However, keep books handy everywhere...in the car, bathroom, or anywhere you may have a few extra minutes.
(7)  Choose a place to read together...one that is comfortable and special for you and your child.
(8) It is okay if your child wants to read the same book over and over again...as they get to know the words encourage them to fill the words in and read along with you.
(9) Select books slightly above your child's reading level, but on their interest level. However, as your child develops their reading ability and gets older occasionally select a book at their reading level and take turns reading aloud.
(10)  Welcome questioning during the story and be prepared for many questions... especially from the younger children. Answer the questions patiently - Jim Trelease reminds us that, "there is no time limit for reading a book, but there is a time limit on a child’s inquisitiveness. Foster that curiosity with patient answers—then resume your reading."

The time you take to read aloud with your child will plant the seeds of reading for pleasure and joy .....so make it a priority in your family routine.