Library 

What are the benefits of reading with my child? 

The benefits of reading to children include helping them build language skills, learn about the world, and develop empathy and emotional awareness. Reading together also provides an opportunity for parents and children to connect.

Building Big Brains: The Power of Reading Together

Reading at home is the most powerful way to help your child thrive. It’s not just about "learning to read"—it’s about reading to learn and building the "brain pathways" that help children and young people understand the world.

Why Every Book Matters

Neuropsychologist Dr. Laura Phillips explains that exposure to words is the single most important thing you can do for your child’s development.

• Beyond "Everyday" Talk: At home, we often use the same familiar words. Books introduce "rare" words and complex sentences that kids don't hear in normal conversation.
• The Million-Word Advantage: Research shows that children read to daily hear nearly 1.4 million more words by the time they start school than those who aren't. This makes it much easier for them to tackle harder texts as they grow.
• Building a "Knowledge Bank": Whether it’s a story about space, nature, or different countries, books give kids "background knowledge." This context makes learning new subjects at school feel much easier!

Tips for Families

You don't need hours of time to make a massive impact. Try these "Quick Wins":

1. The "Notice & Connect" Trick: While reading, pause to say: "This character is going to the zoo—remember when we saw the giraffes?" This helps link book-learning to real-life memories.
2. Let Them Pick: As children become proficient readers they may want more independence. Let them choose graphic novels, non-fiction, or audiobooks—it all counts toward their word exposure!
3. Active Listening: If your child is reading to you, ask: "What do you think happens next?" This builds the "cognitive capacity" to predict and analyse stories.

"Reading helps kids maximize their language and brainpower. It gives them the tools to make sense of the world." — Dr. Laura Phillips

Book Club

Issue #2  of Scholastic Book Club is now available. The latest catalogue has been sent home, and it can be viewed online. Please complete your book orders online, and no cash will be accepted at school. The cut-off date for orders is Friday, 20th March. This is the perfect opportunity to order books for the school holidays! 

It is always exciting when new fiction and non-fiction books arrive in the library. Keep checking the BookFlix notice board for the latest books in the library. Please see Miss Melanie if you can't find a new title.