Why is reading so important to improving my child’s reading and spelling and vocabulary skills?
I have spoken in a number of previous blog posts about the disproportionate focus that the CEM exam gives to a child’s skill and ability with the English language.
English is the one subject where a child cannot ‘cram’ for their exam.
It is a skill that needs to be developed, crafted and honed over time.
Even a thorough knowledge of grammar and spelling rules does not expose a child to the complexities of the English language.
Every language has ‘exceptions to the rule’.
The English language is a composite of, and has been influenced by, a number of historic European languages and it, therefore, contains many anomalies that have to be learnt.
These exceptions are more easily grasped if the child reads widely and is, therefore, subconsciously absorbing the complexities that make up the modern English language.
How does a parent encourage their child to read a wide variety of books to help them develop the skills they need?
The best thing a parent can do is create an environment where reading is fun and sparks a child’s imagination.
We know how creative children can be, as they make up many stories themselves and naturally play inventively.
Exposing them to books builds on this creativity and encourages children to develop their imagination even further.