Reading is essential for children’s development – and, of course, it’s great fun! There are so many benefits of reading regularly as you grow up. Let’s find out more.

In our last article, we talked about why reading is great if you’re an adult. But what about those who are a little bit younger? When you’re a child, you learn to read. Then, you read a lot for school. But, sometimes, you miss out on just reading for the fun of it.

In this article, we’ll look at five benefits of reading for children – and why you should make time to lose yourself in a book (or eBook) that isn’t just for school. Let’s go!

1 – Reading develops your vocabulary

When you read, you learn new words and concepts, which you can then use in conversation with other people. You can also use them to make your own writing better. If you struggle with spelling, reading more is a great way to learn how words are made up. As you read, without even knowing it, you absorb information that will help you in the future.

2 – Reading strengthens your brain

Reading requires more action than watching TV or a YouTube video. You can’t just let a book wash over you; you actually have to read it. But, when you read, it makes the connections in your brain stronger. 

When your brain is strong, you can focus better and concentrate harder. Your problem-solving skills improve, and you can reason better. You’ll probably find your listening skills improve too.

3 – Reading improves your creativity

Books can take you to a whole new world, telling you stories that could never be true in real life, but seem real on the page. At the same time, it opens up your imagination, letting you picture in your head what characters look like or how the places where they live are set out. 

This helps you be more creative in everything else you do, including art, music, writing and more.

4 – Reading helps you understand other people

Reading is a great way to learn more about how other people think, act and live. When you read, you’ll encounter real-life situations that are very different from yours. It helps you think more deeply about other people and how you feel about what they’re going through.

When you develop empathy in this way, you build emotional intelligence, which can help in social situations. It also makes you a nicer person!

5 – Reading is fun!

Finally, but most importantly, reading is really enjoyable! What could be better than taking some quiet time to lose yourself in a book? Books take you on an adventure; they make you think, laugh and cry. Start reading for fun early, and it’s something that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

Give it a try!

Who would have thought that a simple book could bring so many benefits? Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to read. Grab a book you think you’ll enjoy, find somewhere quiet to go, then just dive in. 

Now you know the benefits of reading as a child, what are you waiting for? Put your screen away and grab your book (or Kindle) right now; you’ll be glad you did.