Blogging A to Z: Multiple Readings
Do you have that one book in the house that you wish with all your might would just “happen” to disappear? And you’d totally make that happen if it wasn’t for the inevitable meltdown that would occur because of it? Yep, that one book that you kid wants you to read over and over again. So much so, that you could probably read it blindfolded by now!
It can be maddening to have to repeat the same book when your bookshelves are literally groaning with the weight of dozens of other options. But, before you make that book disappear, let me tell you about the importance of reading the same book over and over again.
Why It’s Important
First, it’s comfortable. Have you ever re-watched a movie or TV series? Knowing what’s going to happen is nice, especially in a world that is throwing new things at you every day! Knowing what happens next makes a child feel safe and secure. And that right there might be a good enough reason to have multiple readings.
At the same time, reading a book multiple times is also great for kids to learn the rules of storytelling and of language. Stories have a beginning, middle, and end. By hearing a story multiple times, a child begins to understand the construct of how stories are built. Children might also be picking up on new pieces of the story each time you read – maybe they see something in the illustrations or better understand a part of the story. This is comprehension and reading text and comprehension go hand in hand.
Kids also learn about fluency, rhythm, and vocabulary when they hear the same story again and again. Language can be difficult to learn. But repeated readings help kids hear how language is put together, the rhythm of sentences, and what new words mean in context. Multiple readings help kids better understand the rules of language.
Just remember, this to shall pass and your little one will find a new favorite book to read over and over again! In the mean time, here’s a list of beautiful books that you just might like reading over and over again!
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.
Book List #13 – Multiple Readings
- All Because You Matter by Tami Charles, illustrated by Bryan Collier
A powerful reminder to Black and brown children that they are worthy. - The Alphabet’s Alphabet by Chris Harris, illustrated by Dan Santat
A twisted take on the alphabet, this one will at least be exciting to read! - Bee-Bim Bop! by Linda Sue Park, illustrated by Ho Baek Lee
One to make you drool and it includes a recipe in the back too! - First Animal Encyclopedia: A First Reference Guide to the Animals of the World
A book that’s not meant to be read cover to cover, this is a fun way to explore the animal world. - Follow the Trail: Baby Dinosaurs
Encouraging hand-eye coordination, this is an interactive dino book! - Glad, Glad Bear! by Kimberly Gee
Feelings can be complicated – Bear is glad he’s taking his first dance class, but he’s a little nervous too. - Homes in the Wild: Where Baby Animals and Their Parents Live by Lita Judge
A peak into the many places baby animals call home. - In My Anaana’s Amautik by Nadia Sammurtok, illustrated by Lenny Lishchenko
A beautiful bedtime story about a baby’s experience wrapped up close to their mama. - I Stink! by Kate McMullan & Jim McMullan
The busy life of a garbage truck is sure to excite readers who love big trucks! - Little Owl’s Night by Divya Srinivasan
Little Owl can’t imagine that daytime is any better than the wonderful nighttime, but falls asleep before the sun comes up! - What Color Is My Hijab? by Hudda Ibrahim, illustrated by Meenal Patel
Learn colors as a little girl chooses her hijab for the day. - Who’s Hiding in This Box? by Giuliano Ferri
Lift the flaps to discover who is hiding in each box!
If you’re interested in purchasing any of the titles on this list, please use my affiliate link for Bookshop.org. When you purchase from this link, I will earn a commission as an affiliate.
For the month of April, I’ll be sharing early literacy tips and book lists as part of the Blogging A to Z Challenge. Learn about the importance of early literacy and ways to incorporate tips and tricks into your family’s daily routine. Developing language skills before kids head to school helps them to be ready to learn when they reach school-age. In addition to great content, you’ll also get a new book list for each letter, resulting in over 300 board book and picture book suggestions for your family to enjoy!
