Karin Gifvas: How much should you read with a child – and why?

Reading regularly with children is one of the most important things adults can do to support language development, a love of reading, and academic success. But how much is needed – and is a bedtime story enough? What does the research say?

1. Early and regular reading aloud has a great effect

• Children who hear more words develop stronger language and thinking skills (Hart & Risley, 1995).
• Reading aloud stimulates the brain and strengthens vocabulary, concentration and empathy.
• The American Academy of Pediatrics (2014) recommends reading aloud every day from infancy.

2. How much reading is needed?

• 15–20 minutes per day makes a big difference, especially if it takes place in different forms (reading aloud, conversation, retelling).
• It's not just how often you read, but how you read: talking about the text, asking questions and connecting it to the child's everyday life strengthens understanding.

3. A bedtime story is good – but preferably more during the day

• The bedtime story creates closeness and security, but is often short and passive.
• Several short reading sessions during the day – for example after breakfast, on the bus or after dinner – have a stronger linguistic effect.

4. Repeated reading reinforces learning

• Children learn new words and concepts by hearing them multiple times in different contexts (Horst et al., 2011).
• Rereading the same book several times is both language-developing and creates security.

5. Reading affects school success

• Children who are exposed to many books develop better reading comprehension, storytelling skills and learning strategies (Mol & Bus, 2011).
• Reading at home is strongly linked to reading interest and school performance (OECD PIRLS & PISA).

Is a bedtime story enough?

A bedtime story is a nice habit – but not enough in itself. For best language development, children should experience daily reading sessions of 15–20 minutes, preferably in different forms and with discussions about the content.

To ensure that the child receives the amount of reading needed for good language development, Readioo is a valuable support. When the child reads aloud with Readioo and also hears an adult reading aloud, the opportunities for optimal development in both language and reading skills are doubled.

Readioo simply makes it easier to read more!

Karin Gifvas is a preschool, primary school and special education teacher with deep expertise in reading, language and writing development. With extensive experience working with digital services and products, she has a strong focus on creating accessible and inspiring learning environments. Through her work, she strives to give all children the best conditions to develop a rich language, a strong desire to read and a curiosity for learning.