Write On! Let Stories Shape Young Minds

There are plenty of reasons to encourage kids to snuggle up and get lost in the pages of a book (or Kindle). Here are some you may not have considered Do you remember that friend who could spin a story out of thin air? Or that classmate who always had the most creative ideas? Chances are, they were one of those kids who spent their time immersed in books. Children who read a lot are used to analysing complex plots, understanding character motivations and predicting outcomes. They often develop strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which can be invaluable in later life. Moreover, their broad vocabulary, effective communication skills and empathetic nature (all a product of their reading habits) can give them an edge at school and beyond. Their love for learning and open-mindedness can contribute to personal growth and fulfilment as well. When children spend their time reading, they’re constantly exploring new worlds, meeting different characters and living through a whirlwind of adventures. All of these experiences fuel the imagination. Books encourage children to visualise the story in their minds; this enhances their ability to imagine scenarios, people and places. It’s no surprise then that children who love to read often have a knack for creativity and can think outside the box.

COMMUNICATION AND EMPATHY

There’s a good chance that children who are well able to express their thoughts and feelings, are bookish. Reading opens up a whole universe of words, phrases, idioms and expressions. It helps children understand the nuances of language and how different words can be used to convey various emotions and ideas; it provides children with a rich vocabulary and a flair for expressing themselves. What’s more, children who spend lot of time lost in books truly understand the power of words. They’ve laughed, cried, been inspired and felt a whole range of emotions, all thanks to the words on a page. They’ve seen how words can build and destroy, heal and hurt, inspire and demotivate. They know that a well-placed word can change a situation or even a life. And they carry this understanding into their interactions with others. They’re mindful of what they say, how they say it, and when they say it because they know the impact their words can have. They value meaningful conversations and aren’t afraid to delve deep. Avid readers tend to excel at conversation, debating or any situation that requires clear and effective communication. But it’s not just about talking. Reading also improves listening skills as it trains the mind to absorb information, follow complex plots and understand different viewpoints. It follows then, that children who devour books have a heightened ability to understand and share the feelings of others. They’re often incredibly empathic. Children who love to read grow up engrossed in stories about characters from all walks of life. Whether it’s empathising with Charlie as he navigates the challenges of the chocolate factory or feeling the pain of Scout as she grapples with racial injustice, reading allows children to walk in someone else’s shoes, even if just for a few hundred pages. This results in something magical: it ensures children have compassion and can easily connect with others on an emotional level. It helps children understand that everyone has their own story, their own battles and their own unique perspective.

LOVE OF LEARNING

Children who spend a lot of time reading often develop an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. They’re the ones who are always curious, always questioning and always seeking answers. Books have taught them that there’s a wealth of knowledge out there waiting to be explored. They understand that every day offers an opportunity to learn something new and they grab it with both hands.

There’s a certain beauty in the way children who grow up reading a lot perceive the world. It’s as if they’ve been gifted a pair of 3D glasses that allows them to see life from various angles. Books have the amazing ability to transport children to different places, times and cultures. One day they’re a wizard in England, the next they’re a geisha in Japan, and then a rebel in a dystopian future.

This exposure to diverse perspectives helps children develop an understanding and appreciation for different cultures, traditions and ways of life. And it’s not just about geographical or cultural diversity. Books also expose children to a myriad of ideas, philosophies and ideologies. This exposure broadens their horizon and makes them more openminded and accepting.

Another benefit? Reading helps children develop their ability to focus. Imagine a child engrossed for the first time in the adventures of Jane Eyre or Oliver Twist, completely oblivious to the noise of the television in the next room or their siblings’ chatter. That level of concentration isn’t easy to achieve. Reading requires children to sit still, concentrate on the words and let their mind weave a mental tapestry of the story. It’s an exercise in mindfulness that helps children improve their attention span and ability to focus on one task at a time.

PERSONAL FULFILLMENT

This might sound like a bit of a reach, but children who spend a lot of time immersed in books are independent and self-fulfilled. For instance, they understand that being alone doesn’t always mean being lonely. Reading is a solitary activity, and children come to realise that sometimes, they need that space: that quiet corner where they can dive into another world and forget about everything else. Growing up as keen readers, children learn to enjoy their own company. They understand that sometimes, it’s fine to step back from the crowd and spend some time with their thoughts (or a good book). It’s not about being anti-social or aloof, lonely or isolated; it’s about finding comfort and peace in solitude. Likewise, reading teaches patience. Whether it’s waiting for the plot to unfold, for a character’s redemption, or simply for the next book in a series to be released, reading isn’t about instant gratification: it requires time and patience. Reading’s not like watching a twohour movie where everything wraps up neatly. You have to invest yourself in it, and turn page after page to see how the story unfolds. This habit of waiting for the climax or resolution in books, allows children to learn that good things take time, and that it’s OK to wait, to be patient and trust the process. Lastly, children who love to read know how to find joy in simple things. There’s something undeniably pleasurable about curling up with a good book (or Kindle) on a rainy day, and loosing oneself in a wonderful story. This ability to find pleasure in little things extends beyond children’s reading habits. It reflects in their life too. They appreciate small gestures and cherish quiet moments. They understand that Dumbledore was right when he said: “Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”