The Importance of Story Time
Reading to children is important, not only to improve language and literacy skills but to also ignite imagination. When children listen to descriptions, their brain translates them into pictures that encourages understanding of the world around them. Studies have also found telling stories to children helps them to relax and regulate their feelings and in turn improves quality of sleep. And this is something I wanted to explore further.
To test this theory I devised a small research project of my own. I wanted to prove or disprove the suggestion that reading helps improve sleep quality of my preschool aged Son. We usually read a story after bath time and then allow him to have 10 minutes play before settling him to sleep. Although he does eventually go to sleep, it can take some time and persuasion.
During week 1 we tested the variable of no story time before bed and on average it took him 30 minutes to settle and fall asleep.
Week 2 we returned to our normal routine of bath, story and short play, this improved the settling time to 20 minutes.
Week 3 we changed the bedtime routine to bath, short play and then story time. He chose a different book each night and we discussed the story before going to sleep. Surprisingly, the settling time was reduced to 15 minutes. More interestingly, his usual wake time went from 6:30am to 7:00am consistently over the 7 days.
I am not completely convinced that the improvements are the result of changing the order of story time, but do believe the quality of our one to one time was improved That said, I am planning to continue to read to him directly before bedtime, even for the chance of a longer lie in the next morning. But what I am confident to report on is the invaluable time reading allows. Yes the developmental benefits are important but the cuddles and shared thinking time is the best part of my day. Story time for us, helps to reaffirm our bond as we enjoy the endless possibilities a good book can provide.
I recognise that all families are unique and it is not always possible to read and tell stories every night. However, I would strongly suggest making time to tell stories at least once a week, which can help support brain development, extend vocabulary and ignite imagination.
Here are our top ten stories for children under 5:
1. The very Hungary caterpillar
2. We’re going on a bear hunt
3. The tiger who came to tea
4. Room on the broom
5. Each peach pear plum
6. The Gruffalo
7. Brown bear brown bear what do you see
8. Hairy Maclary
9. Tiddler the story telling fish
10. Peter Rabbit
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