Reading with kids develops their language skills and much more

What about reading aloud to older children? Shared book reading can continue to provide pleasure, for both readers and listeners, even when children can read independently. The serialisation of classics such as Wind in the Willows, Winnie the Pooh, The Hobbit, and C.S. Lewis’s Narnia series provides children with experiences that create a strong sense of reading as a companionable, enjoyable pastime.

Roald Dahl’s books remain high on lists of children’s favourite books. Shared readings of Matilda or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory provide engrossing entertainment, and these are books that can be re-read with increasing pleasure.

Newly popular books, like J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter books can be just as engrossing when read aloud as when read independently. Sometimes, when an adult reads part of a long book like the Harry Potter books, the child becomes engaged with the story, and will then continue the reading on her own.

Many of the titles cited here are all-time favourites. There are thousands of possible choices of books for sharing with children. Browsing bookshops with children creates opportunities for them to select books, and develop into discriminating readers. Tracking the works of a particular author is another way of selecting books.

The Children’s Book Council of Australia provides an excellent source of titles of books for older and younger readers that may interest and excite children when they hear them read aloud.

There is no doubt that reading aloud is a valuable and thoroughly enjoyable activity for adults and children. Many different books will engage the children who listen to them. Choosing a "good book" may involve trying something new and different, revisiting a known favourite, or following a child’s particular interests. Whatever the book, the shared reading should be enjoyable for both parties.