At Coram Beanstalk we train our reading helpers to spend some, or even all, of their sessions reading to the children they are supporting - because we know just how much that benefits that child's path to becoming a reader.

When reading to an adult, children are often using much of their brain power to decode individual words - which leaves little brain capacity to process their collective meaning. By hearing words read aloud, a child has time to picture, imagine and connect to a story. They can focus on what’s actually happening!

Reading aloud to children of any age - even those who are already fairly able readers - has both academic and emotional benefits as they are exposed to more complex vocabulary, in context, which you can discuss with them and reinforce. And, you have the opportunity to explore emotive or sensitive subjects in a guided way - helping build empathy. It gives both you and the child, the opportunity to stimulate discussion outside of book reading. Making connections is an important part of comprehension; by reading with a child you are able to help them see how what they have read connects to their lives or the lives of others.

Reading a story aloud with voices and expression, not only helps children to better understand the meaning but it also makes reading exciting - and even better, you get the sheer pleasure of legitimately reading (or re-reading) some amazing children’s books!

We've come up with a list of books which are perfect for reading aloud - and we guarantee that they'll have you, and the child you're reading to, in stitches and begging for more!

About the book 

The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak

At once perfectly simple and ingeniously imaginative, The Book With No Pictures inspires laughter every time it is opened, creating a warm and joyous experience to share—and introducing young children to the powerful idea that the written word can be an unending source of mischief and delight!

B.J Novak reads The Book With No Pictures

Equally brilliant beanstalk books which are perfect for reading aloud!