Posted on June 19, 2020 at 3:00 PM by Genesis Gaule
I’m sure everyone has heard that reading is good for you at some point in your life. It’s common knowledge that reading is not usually every kid’s favorite interest compared to playing video games or spending time with friends. However, especially since you may be finding your family stuck at home with extra free time during this unusual summer, I encourage any parents to encourage your kid(s) to read. But why exactly is reading so beneficial for us? (besides it just being fun)
- Expands vocabulary
I know that the essays of myself and my peers who love to read have included more complex and diverse word choice.
- Learning new facts
Reading the Percy Jackson books alone has made me a near expert on Greek mythology.
- Teaches rules of grammar
Which is very important and needed in basic, everyday writing! Also, for those parents with high school students, the English section of the ACT mainly consists of grammar!
- Improves standardized test scores
One of my teachers frequently reminded us that reading for only a half an hour a day will improve your ACT score, and I can speak for this.
- Increases creativity
Because suddenly your child can visit dozens of fantasy worlds or far corners of the world from the comforts of your home
- Reduces stress
Reading for 6 minutes can reduce stress by 60%! It may also reduce stress if you’re a parent because hopefully your child will be occupied for longer, and out of your hair, with reading!
Being a book fanatic myself, I know that the many stories I’ve read have taught me even more than and were not limited to the few benefits I listed above. My favorite part is experiencing the thrill of a new story and the emotions that the writing evokes.
For parents, try adding a half hour of reading right before your kid(s) bedtime (which will hopefully calm them down enough to go to sleep but may inadvertently lead to late night reading of their exciting book). And most of all, have fun with reading!