The Benefits of Children's Literature

As I have grown over the years, my appreciation for reading has evolved. The joy has always been there but it is for quite different reasons now than it was 15 years ago. I still enjoy an exciting picture book but I take in different things about it now that I am aspiring to be a successful teacher. As I read and discover new books, I think, “How can I use this in my classroom and will it be valuable to my future students.”  It is important to build an abundant library that includes books of all levels, genres, and styles. Supplying children with numerous books to choose from will allow them to take full advantage ot the benefits they offer.

Children’s literature offers many educational benefits in addition to personal benefits.

Personal Benefits of children’s literature:

·         Provides entertainment

·         Gives children a point of reference for understanding their own life experiences

·         Provides a broader view of the world

·         Develops their imagination

·         Helps children develop insight into human behaviors such as morality, relationships, and compassion

Educational benefits of children’s literature:

·         Helps children with their language and literacy development

·         Increases language acquisition, reading comprehension, vocabulary, fluency, story patterns, writing skills and positive attitude towards reading

·         Allows children to think critically and creatively while solving problems and having discussions.

·         Provides a natural connection to other curriculum areas