I’m a sucker for a good story. It’s hard to say if it’s nurture or nature. I’m a blend of story genetics: storytelling and story-reading. My maternal family is bursting with people who love reading. Some have even gone professional with their adoration of the written word; my mom and three of her sisters are librarians. My paternal family is full of storytellers ranging from script writing professionals to aunts who get us roaring as they re-tell a moment at a family get-together.

It doesn’t matter if it’s a recollection or a reading, I just love stories.

There is something incredible about sharing a story together. One of my ultimate joys as a teacher and parent is reading stories aloud. Here’s why:

1. Age Doesn’t Matter

As the oldest of five kids, I remember hearing my mom reading stories to my younger siblings while I was finishing up supper dishes. It was more than once that my 15-year-old self inched closer and closer until I was sitting on the edge of the couch, totally engrossed in the Narnia book.

A good story is a good story, regardless of the intended age of the audience. Even picture books can be fantastic!

2. Ability Doesn’t Matter

When a story is read aloud, we don’t have to stress about reading ability or level. Many of us, students included, prefer to pick stories that are at or a little below our reading level because it’s easier.

Admit it. We all do it.

However, being exposed to rich vocabulary, dynamic characters, and complex plot entertains and educates us. Hearing these stories is a way to take away the stress of figuring out the words and puts all the emphasis on our imaginations.

Us teachers will sometimes read the first book of a series that is a bit higher than the grade level we’re teaching. Once that book is done, students are clamoring to read the second book themselves, regardless of reading level.

Why?

They are already sold; it’s going to be worth the effort! Bonus: reading slightly higher than our reading level improves our reading level.

3. Sharing The Experience Matters

This is my top reason to read together. As we discover new places and new characters, we react together. I’ve laughed, smirked, questioned, and even cried with students as we’ve shared stories aloud. I’ve had kids cheering and yelling, “YEEEESSS!! She made a friend!” Then, students groaning, “Oh, she’s one of THOSE kids! I hate that!” after reading about a character who was polite to an adult, but then rude behind her back.

But there is also something powerful about having an opportunity to talk about real life, without the emotions of being in the crisis personally. We can pause a character’s “My friends are ignoring me!” or “Should I take the risk?” situation and enjoy a safe space to reflect on our experiences or ideas of how to handle the situation as Christ-followers.

Some of the most powerful class devotions I experienced came from just reading a Bible story and students responding with “But, Mrs. Enns, why did God let that happen?” It’s great to pause and ask our kids questions as you read: “What did you think about that character’s reaction?” or, “Has that ever happened to someone you know?” When we read together, we not only get to experience a common story, but you also get a chance to help shape and inform your child’s Kingdom perspective.

Words are powerful. Stories are powerful. That’s why Jesus told a lot of them. I think God created us with story brains. I don’t have a verse for that, but just a thought! There is just something about sharing stories together that connects us. So, read the Bible, read a novel, listen to an audiobook, and step into the space of the shared story with the kids in your life!

You might even have them begging for just one more chapter.

You won’t regret it…unless they steal the book to finish it without you!