The magic of storytelling is timeless. It’s such a gift to share literature with our kids. While I love reading sweet, simple board books to my kiddos, I’ve found that read-alouds are so rewarding. In this post, I will share what read-alouds are tips for implementing them into your homeschool.

What is a read-aloud?

A read-aloud is simply when you read a book out loud to an audience. In the homeschooling world, it typically refers to reading quality, classical literature to your kids. 

What are the benefits of homesread-alouds?

This type of reading can be amazingly beneficial. Reading helps children build vocabulary and language skills. However, we know that these benefits aren’t just for the reader themselves! Listening to books is just as beneficial. Reading aloud to your kids can expose them to writing that is above their current reading level. They’ll grow their vocabulary by hearing new words. 

Through literature, kids can learn about different times in history and build upon their understanding of the world. Reading books from different eras exposes children to topics, words, and writing styles that aren’t as commonly seen in modern children’s books. They can offer a unique glimpse into the past. 

How to Incorporate Read-Alouds into your Homeschool

If you’re ready to try read-alouds and take advantage of all those wonderful benefits, I have some recommendations for you! These tips will help to make read-alouds an enjoyable and educational experience for all. 

Advice for Choosing a Book

• Start with a favorite. Connect with your child while connecting with your own childhood! If there is a classic novel that you remember reading and enjoying as a child, share it with your own kids. Intentional Homeschooling and Read-Aloud Revival have some great book recommendation lists that will spark your memory.
• Research your book before reading it out loud. A book you may have read long ago may have topics or language that you’ve forgotten about. If you’re reading classics, you’ll have no problem finding information about the recommended age for the book and why.  You know your children best and what is or isn’t appropriate for them. 
• Allow opportunities to follow your children’s interests. You may only want to read the wonderful literary classics but consider your goals! If you want your child to have a love of reading, allow them some choice. Let them help pick books to read. Reading Captain Underpants isn’t as enriching as reading The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, but it still can be joyful. 

Tips for Reading

• Read when your kids are relaxed and ready to listen. Don’t try to force readalouds. Choose natural times to read, like during meal-times, quiet play times, or before bed. Wriggly little kids aren’t always the best listeners! 
• Bring the characters to life. Use distinct voices as you read, draw what you imagine different characters would look like, or play character charades. Ask them if the character reminds them of anyone, if they’d be friends with them, or how they’d feel if they were in their shoes.
• Consider giving your kids opportunities to help reading. Take turns reading sentences or pages, have them read a specific word, or simply have them follow along with their finger. This will boost their reading skills and keep them engaged.
• Add onto your children’s learning as you read. Take time for side quests whenever you come across something new and interesting. Learn about the countries or cultures mentioned in the book. Research curious topics and try new foods.
• Follow-up when the book is finished. Talk about the book together and consider doing a book report with your kids. Did they enjoy the book? Why or Why not? Would they have ended it differently?

Suggestions for More Fun

• Get creative! Give your kids fun ways to discuss and interact with the book. Draw important moments from the book, write a poem about a special character, act out scenes together, or prepare a themed lunch. 
• Enjoy the book with others. Join a book club or start your own! It’s an awesome way to further the joy of reading. Hosting a small gathering to discuss the book, do themed crafts, play games, and eat delicious food with other homeschool families.

Now that you’re prepared to incorporate more read-alouds into your homeschool, it’s time to pick a book and enjoy. Reading with your children is so much fun! There are so many adventures you can take together through the pages of books! I hope you feel encouraged to read more classical books to your kids. Passing down a love of reading is an incredible gift!