Why is Reading Aloud 15 minutes a Day Important?
Reading aloud to children not only provides a bonding experience with caring adults, but the simple act of reading aloud to child 15 minutes a day for five years results in 27,375 minutes of language exposure which can put children on the path to high literacy achievement. Reading aloud opens up the world to children, helping them build knowledge and vocabulary. As children’s brains are rapidly developing, one of the greatest gifts we can give them is our time reading aloud.
Read Aloud Resources
- Benefits of Reading Aloud to Children. This one-page list can be shared with partners and families to highlight the importance of reading to children of all ages.
- National Read Aloud 15 Minutes Campaign. The Read to ME Challenge is Maine’s contribution to the national Read Aloud 15 Minutes campaign designed to promote the importance of reading aloud to children at least 15 minutes each day.
- Literacy for ME. Maine's Comprehensive State Literacy Plan
Book Lists for Children
The following web-based resources offer lists of engaging books for reading aloud to children of varying ages.
- Raising Readers
- Association for Library Services to Children
- Children’s Book Council
- New York Public Library
Reading Aloud Tips
Looking for tips about reading aloud to children? Check out these web-based resources.