The importance of shared reading in developing a child’s language and literacy skills.

Shared reading can be done with a parent/caregiver or another child. It facilitates children’s word learning. If paired with a stronger reader children do not have to extract new words but can follow the story line.

Benefits of shared reading

There are several benefits of shared reading for developing a child's language and literacy skills in the early years.

• It supports school readiness. This includes vocabulary size, oral language skills, print awareness, word identification and comprehension skills.

• The impact of shared reading on literacy is long lasting. Children who are read to frequently at age five are over half a school year ahead in reading performance at age 15, compared to those who are read to infrequently or not read to at all. 

·       Shared reading provides opportunities for a child’s verbal interactions with their parent, carer or class mate.

·       It could also help to increase their reading level.

Tips for parents to do shared reading with their child

·       Make time to read together every day – the longer the better, but even 15 minutes is better than not at all.

·       Read together in a place without distractions, like television or computers.

·       If it is a new book, look through it together first and discuss what it might be about.

·       Make a routine, and try to share at least one book every day.

·       Turn off the TV, put your phone on silent, and find a quiet place to read so your child can hear your voice

Parent reading with child

The shared reading approach has a positive impact on children’s comprehension and helps to develop a child’s language and literacy skills.

Don’t forget to discuss the story and ask questions!

 Shared learning can help children to focus their attention and energy on important reading skills. They can make important predictions while a partner or parent is reading.