Stories are synonymous with bedtime, especially for younger children. Reading aloud with your child is a wonderful opportunity to bond. But it will also help them read and learn.
By hearing a story read aloud, children learn new words, are encouraged to use their imagination and develop important comprehension skills. Reading aloud with your child will improve their literacy.
World Read Aloud Day in February
World Read Aloud Day takes place in February. This initiative, celebrated annually by millions around the world, highlights the importance and benefits of reading aloud and sharing stories. Children who regularly read and hear engaging stories, in languages they understand, are well-equipped and motivated to learn to read and write. Aside from keeping children entertained and educated, stories provide a great source of comfort during difficult times.
Let’s read together
Reading champions at schools, teachers and families are urged to join Nal’ibali’s initiative to read this year’s unique story aloud. Each year, Nal’ibali produces a special story for World Read Aloud Day. This year, it is Mabel Mnensa’s A Party In The Park. The book is available in all 11 official languages of South Africa as well as six other foreign languages. It is a wonderful way to not only contribute to helping raise literacy awareness, but also to bond with a child.
Dads, this is a great opportunity to get in on storytime and create special memories.
Pledge to read aloud
Nal’ibali (isiXhosa for “here’s the story”) is a national reading-for-enjoyment campaign to spark children’s potential through storytelling and reading. Help Nal’ibali reach its goal of reading to three million children for World Read Aloud Day 2022. Visit nalibali.org to make your pledge – at home, at school or within your community.
You can also Whatsapp ‘WRAD’ to 060 044 2254 to make your pledge and get the special story in any of the available languages.
Bond with a child, create lasting memories and foster a lifelong love of reading, pledge to read aloud!
There’s another way to bond with your child, co-watch a television show or movie with them.
The beauty and power of books
Children’s books have traditionally served as a gateway to the imagination. They enable young readers to discover new worlds, meet new characters, and go on adventures. Books allow children to dream big and access the world’s wisdom.
Handling and reading books, understanding how stories operate, detecting sounds and letters, expanding vocabulary, and honing listening abilities will develop early reading skills. Young children will quickly learn these valuable skills when a caring adult or teen reads aloud to them.
You’re never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read to a child – Dr Seuss
