How many adult readers do you know? I’m not referring to literate and alfabetized adults, but to people who have the habit of reading. Yes, the digital age we live in creates an unfair competition, as so much information can be accessed at once on a single device, not to mention the various social networks. However, the lack of habit isn’t only about this issue. Habits are formed, not created overnight. It’s something that is built, something that makes sense to the person and brings some kind of pleasure.
Frequent contact with literature sparks numerous skills, such as language development, vocabulary expansion, creativity, and the discovery of the imaginary world. Therefore, it is essential that the literary options and textual materials offered by the school are of high quality. Having books visible and accessible, and being able to handle them, is a way of sparking curiosity and the desire to learn more about them, slowly allowing the child to take ownership of the object that should be part of their entire school and personal journey.
Additionally, reading done by an adult is, first and foremost, an act of care. The tone of voice, closeness, eye contact, and interaction while reading strengthen emotional bonds. Have you ever stopped to observe the children’s expressions when they are listening to a story? When they identify with the character, they begin to understand better what they are feeling and see others through listening and reflecting on actions and positions present in the narrative, which contributes to the repertoire of their personal relationships.
Let’s work together to strengthen the reading habit in our little ones!
Ligia Botelho – Pedagogical Director
