AD – this is a paid collaboration.
Literature can be a window into other times and places, giving children insight into other cultures and broadening their worldview. It can also be a tool for understanding the self and provide guidance for everyday situations whilst teaching core morals and values. The value of literature for a child’s development is immense and to explore this further I’ve teamed up with an independent school in London who have shared the following insights.
Life Lessons
Books written for children often approach real life situations in an age-appropriate way. Literature can act as a guide for dealing with difficult scenarios that children may face and shows them that they are not alone. Reading also allows children to explore moral values, they will read about characters facing moral dilemmas and making decisions in tricky situations. This is a helpful way to reinforce the values you teach to your child and helps them to see moral decision making in action, encouraging them to replicate this behaviour in their own lives.
Critical Thinking
Fictional stories encourage deeper thought as children analyse the characters and plot as they follow the story. Literature leaves room for interpretation, allowing the reader to form an opinion based on their own moral standing and personal experiences, which means that children will be encouraged to analyse the story to reach their own unique standpoint. They will read about characters experiencing moral dilemmas and be introduced to conflicting points of view so will learn to appreciate opposing arguments and start to consider their own set of values. Practicing critical thinking through reading encourages children to think more deeply about other areas of their lives and encourages them to be more analytical and curious.
Broadens Worldview
Children’s literature often explores topics outside of the child’s day to day experience. They will have the opportunity to learn about other places and people which promotes an appreciation for diversity and empathy towards others. Literature provides a window into the lives of other people which promotes cultural understanding and introduces new ways of thinking. Children will learn to respect and celebrate other cultures and gain a deeper understanding of the world and their own place within it.
