May is ‘National Share-a-Story Month; a month to celebrate storytelling and just how powerful it can be.

Storytelling is one of the oldest and most powerful forms of teaching. It can teach us about life, about ourselves and the people around us, and it can also help us expand our imagination beyond what we deem possible. There are so many benefits to reading stories, and there are different benefits to children of different ages too…

Infants

Many see infant age as the most vital age to be reading stories. At a very young age, children will find comfort in hearing your voice and this will promote bonding, as well as build your relationship. Whilst some of the children might not actually be able to read themselves, having a story read to them can help them get to know sounds, words and language that can really aid their development both before they begin school, or during their time at school.

Juniors

Research has shown that children’s books contain 50 per cent more unique words than a television show or a typical conversation between two educated adults, which is why it’s still so important to read stories to junior children. At this age, children will be learning to listen to one another more, and reading stories not only improves their listening skills, but can also enhance community in the room. Children will also learn more about the difference between real and make-believe stories and start to understand the foundations to writing their own stories.

Seniors

It’s important for children to continue reading, even once they hit secondary school. As we mentioned, reading improves your vocabulary and at this key learning age, having a wide range available is a fantastic skill, and can naturally enhance children’s academic work and their exam answers.

Sixth Form

Many children stop reading once they reach sixth form and take on chosen subjects, but we highly recommend they continue reading. Reading at this age can help with memory retention, focus and concentration which they will no doubt following an increase in their level of studies. It will also help to reduce stress which may be building up as they prepare for exams and the next big step in their life.

We love hearing about both stories you’ve read and ones you may have written, so if you have managed to read anything spectacular since lockdown, or you’ve written a masterpiece then don’t forget to share it with us!