The simple act of reading out loud to your children can have a hugely positive effect on them. Reading to them in your mother tongue is even more special. Not only does it keep the language alive, it can help with early childhood development and strengthen the bond between you and your child. On 5 February we celebrate World Read Aloud Day, and Nal’ibali has a campaign to celebrate this.
According to a survey conducted by the South African Book Development Council, only 35% of adults with children in their homes read to them, while in 2016 the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study, which tested reading comprehension, found that 78% of South African Grade 4 pupils could not read for meaning.
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Nal’ibali is a movement that aims to promote literacy skills through reading to help secure future academic success in all subjects. This aligns strongly with World Read Aloud Day, which advocates for access to literacy and diverse stories, as well as the power of reading aloud. It is annually celebrated on the first Wednesday of February. Each year Nal’ibali releases a brand-new children’s story in all 11 official languages for caregivers across the country to read aloud to their children. This year, it aims to have 2-million children hear the story from adults who read to them.
The Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PMASA) has pledged its support for Nal’ibali’s campaign. It has a vested interest in all things paper, and it is also a member of the South African Book Development Council, which seeks to increase access to books, especially indigenous-language and diverse-content literature.
The PMASA shares ways to help make reading aloud more engaging.
5 ways to make reading fun and engaging
- Switch off your cellphone and dedicate 15 to 20 minutes reading to your little – or even big – one. You’re never too old to be read to. You could even have your older children read to you! And it’s great practice for them.
- Choose the story together. Scan the bookshelf or visit a library to find the book you want to read aloud together. Arrange a book swap with friends.
- Find a quiet, comfortable area to read together. Make a magic tent with a sheet and some cushions. Take away distractions such as toys or devices.
- Dramatise the story with different voices and accents. Get the kids to do the sound effects. Get older children who can read to participate and assign characters to them.
- Take your time. Don’t rush. And most of all, have fun!
Support Nal’ibali’s World Read Aloud Day campaign
There is still time to help Nal’ibali reach its target. Head to the organisation’s website and sign your pledge to read aloud and download a copy of Nal’ibali’s official story.
You can make your pledge and download the story here.
Image: iStock/monkeybusinessimages
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