We know reading regularly offers numerous benefits for students.  Today I want to briefly focus on the benefits of critical thinking and analytical skills, through reading. When children dive into different books, they start to evaluate information, spot biases, and see things from various angles. This helps them think more critically because they learn to analyze content, question assumptions, and come up with well-informed conclusions.  This takes time, of course. 

Reading also helps kids connect different ideas and concepts, which is great for their problem-solving skills. As they explore different scenarios and viewpoints in stories, they practise breaking down complex issues and building strong arguments. It also helps build the skill of seeing things from different points of view. 

You can support your child’s development of their critical thinking and analytical skills by simply chatting with them about what they read. Encouraging them to share their thoughts and opinions helps solidify these skills.  Conversations don’t necessarily need to be a formal sit-down occasion.  They can be in the car, unpacking the dishes or in bed just before the lights go out. 

A great way into the conversation is to use open-ended questions such as, “What was the book you read about?  What did you think of the book?”  For younger students, you can still have these conversations, by discussing the books and the characters within, which you have read together.   

Author Mark Haddon says, “Reading is a conversation.  All books talk.  But a good book listens as well.”  Books not only communicate ideas but also engage with the reader’s thoughts and feelings.  Happy conversing. 

Oriel McGee – Leader, Learning and Teaching 

Parents and grandparents taking the opportunity to share books with their children in Year 1F before school.  How special.