As parents, we want to do everything we can to protect our children’s mental and emotional well-being. The good news is the answer could be as close as the nearest library, or even your own bookshelf.
According to a study by the National Literacy Trust, children who love reading and writing have better mental well-being. A child who reads and writes regularly outside of school is more likely to have a high level of mental well-being than a child who is less engaged with literacy.
As a parent of a child who loves to read, I notice an increased level of relaxation and focus when my 6 years old reads consistently. I do my best to maintain an appropriate level of reading and play time vs. screen time (a seemingly impossible task, but I try). Reading helps children escape from the always “switched-on” world we live in, and encourages them to relax and “get lost” in a book.
Increased emotional intelligence, higher self-confidence, and better communication skills are just a few of the ways that reading can benefit a child’s mental health.
Emotional Intelligence and Confidence
Books can empower children to understand and manage complex emotions. Through a story, they can learn how to recognize what is happening inside them as they empathize with a character going through a similar situation. They feel more confident about themselves as they discover that they’re not the only ones going through a difficult experience. With the right support available, books can play a therapeutic role by creating a safe space for children who have experienced trauma, life challenges, and relationship difficulties. Through a book, they can explore their emotions and vulnerability by observing a familiar feeling or situation from a distance.
Through reading about different character’s lives, children can learn to connect and better understand the people around them. They become more aware of diversity, which opens their eyes to other cultures, backgrounds and life experiences. As a result, they may be more likely to reach out of their comfort zone and expand their horizons as they slowly progress into adulthood.
A love for reading at a young age can also foster a love for writing, whether it’s stories, poems, a diary, or even notes to friends. Writing gives children an outlet for their emotions.
Being able to read and write well means children can make sense of how they’re feeling, express their thoughts and emotions, and seek support. It can also help to increase their self-confidence and self-awareness, and foster an interest in learning and understanding other points of view.
Communication
For preschool-age children, books are an interactive experience, which aims to develop their speech and language skills. This enables and encourages them to share their feelings and needs with others.
As children grow older and their reading level begins to increase, they may explore harder books and different subject matters. This will help them to learn new words and their meanings, gaining the means to communicate comfortably and confidently with others.
Escapism and fun!
Reading can be a powerful and fun way for a child to unwind at the end of a long day, allowing their minds to run free from any negative thoughts they may be experiencing. Some children will relate to the words, while others will be drawn to the illustrations. A book does not have to be focused on emotions to help children with their well-being. Often what we need the most to feel better is simply some excitement or a good laugh!
Check back in next week for helpful tips on how to foster a love of reading in your children.
References:
Doorstep Library doorsteplibrary.org
Nation Literacy Trust https://literacytrust.org.uk/
Oregon State University blogs.oregonstate.edu