children's literature

What is the importance of reading to children in primary school?

In early childhood, even up to the end of primary, it is necessary to involve children in literature as this will help to form a sound basis for language, and reading for work and pleasure later on. There are many ways that children can become engaged in reading. One of these is reading to the whole class.

Benefits of reading to the class

Everyone in the class will have different reading abilities, some much lower than others.Reading to the class as a whole ensures that everyone is given a chance to enjoy a whole story together. There are connotations of the bedtime routine and feeling comfortable and secure when being read to. With an on going story children can become expectant and hold great anticipation in reading sessions. Their enjoyment may then transfer to their own reading and highlight genres they might enjoy in their own time.

handbook of reading research - Rebecca Barr, Michael L Kamil, Peter Mosenthal, P. David Pearson

childrens voice

It is important that children are given a voice in society as well as at home and in schools. There are many ways of involving infants in decision making and this should be widely encouraged to make them accountable and enthusiastic about their own learning, achievement and environment.

How can this be achieved in schools?

• By involving children in creating their own environment where they will feel happy and safe,
• Letting them make their own rules, which they think would be important within the classroom setting
• A classroom charter to partake in and sign
• A school council where class representatives can put forward ideas and create change
• Encouage debating on topics

the children's commissioner - Al Aynsly Green



children's voice, childrens rights



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