I have loved watching my kids fall in love with reading. I love watching them get excited about new books, beg for more story times and even fall head-over-heels for specific titles. It is so fun to see what books they get attached to and it always means lots and lots and lots of requested re-readings of it. We have a lot of books so sometimes I am tempted to say no to the millionth time of reading the same book that I have completely memorized against my will, but not only is their love of the book so cute, but re-reading is actually super beneficial for little bookworms. Below are 5 great reasons why re-reading the same book over and over is actually a good thing. I’m hoping they help give you a silver-lining reminder for when you are asked to read “Mr. Brown Can Moo, Can You” for the umpteenth time. (Because we have all been there right?! Trust me, I hear you! haha)
Vocabulary
Hearing a story once is a great experience both educationally and otherwise. However, when it is revisited over and over again more learning is encouraged. Vocabulary words that are difficult for young readers are often easily dismissed in books that are read just once or infrequently. In contrast, when a book is read over and over again understanding of the vocabulary words is increased and the repetition helps children learn them to where they can begin using the vocabulary on their own in their own context. The syntax in the book really has more of an opportunity to be incorporated in the child’s language skills when repeated. Its wonderful thing.
Increases Reading Comprehension
Just as vocabulary is picked-up in repeat reads, repeat reads help with increased reading comprehension. With each time the book is read the child is able not only to remember it better, but gains a more clear perspective of such things as cause and effect, sequencing, plot structure and more. Their mind can work out the “why’s” and “how’s” of the story and dive deeper than just the events. When they become familiar enough with the stories they can extend their experience by re-telling it, acting it out and so much more.
Confidence With Books
There is a confidence that comes with getting to know books on a more personal level. If you don’t believe me, just as a little bookworm to finish the sentence on one of the pages of their favorite repeat-read book. Chances are they will leap at the opportunity to chime-in and show how well they know the story. Plus, pre-readers will revel in the ability to “read” the story on their own. Yes, they might not be able to actually decode the words on their own, but being able to tell the story on their own will give them a sense of independence, confidence and even ownership of the story.
Familiar Books are Comforting
Books can be just like a familiar lullaby. Story times are fantastic bonding experiences and those warm-fuzzy feelings can become attached not only to the experience, but specific books that are beloved. When times get stressful or there has been a lot of change in a young child’s life, the familiarity and constant nature of a well loved book (especially one with such fond memories and feelings) can be incredibly comforting. That is a value that cannot be denied and is worth so much.
Fosters a Love of Books
It is the same with all readers young and old alike, when you fall in love with a story it becomes a part of you. The characters become familiar friends who inspire you to reach new heights and whom you feel a connection too. This love motivates you to go on more and more adventures through the pages of a book. It’s a beautiful and wonderful cycle that I don’t think anyone has ever had the desire to break. Why would they?!
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