Reading to Children – Even Teens – Is More Powerful Than You Think

Is reading to teens as important as reading to children?

Oh yes!

Picking up a book and reading to children is known for its benefits: it fosters early language development, sparks imagination, increases the parent/ child bond and creates a foundation for lifelong learning.

But as children grow, it can be easy to overlook the importance of continuing this shared experience, especially as life gets busier! Reading to children is a lovely experience for everyone but when other important things take over, it can get forgotten.

When children get older, we sometimes think they no longer need or want to be read to. BUT, reading aloud to older children – even those in upper primary or early secondary years – has benefits that go beyond literacy skills.

Reading to Older Children

So what are the benefits of reading aloud to older children? Why should we continue?

✨ It Develops Emotional Intelligence

Reading together lets children explore more complex emotions and scenarios in a safe space, building empathy and self-awareness as they reach the tricky teenage years.

✨ It Strengthens Bonds

Shared reading can be a calming, bonding experience, creating treasured memories that reinforce family connections.

✨ It Boosts Vocabulary and Critical Thinking

Hearing stories expands vocabulary and introduces new ways of thinking, helping them tackle more sophisticated texts on their own. Remember to explain trickier words!

✨ It Relaxes and Decompresses

A good story in the evening, shared with a trusted adult, can become a cherished daily ritual that encourages relaxation and peaceful sleep later on. Try turning off the TV and getting stuck into a good story.

Brilliant Book Suggestions

With that in mind, here are ten modern, engaging books perfect for upper primary and lower secondary readers:

1. “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio – a heartwarming story of friendship and courage.
2. “The Wild Robot” by Peter Brown – blending technology and nature, this adventure explores compassion and belonging.
3. “Percy Jackson & the Olympians” series by Rick Riordan – mythology meets modern-day adventure.
4. “A Monster Calls” by Patrick Ness – touches on grief and healing, beautifully told and illustrated.
5. “Ghost” by Jason Reynolds – a sports-themed story about overcoming adversity.
6. “The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate – a tale of friendship, hope, and art from an animal’s perspective.
7. “Holes” by Louis Sachar – a unique blend of mystery and humour.
8. “Amari and the Night Brothers” by B.B. Alston – magical adventure that’s diverse and exciting.
9. “Front Desk” by Kelly Yang – tackles cultural diversity, friendship, and resilience.
10. “Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow” by Jessica Townsend – A magical competition, a cursed girl, and a secret society—perfect for Harry Potter fans!

And yes, even my own teenage children still enjoy a story in the evening. It’s a chance to reconnect, unwind, and dive into fantastic worlds together. Reading to children is therefore important throughout their childhood AND their teenage years.

Never underestimate the power of a good story!