6.1 Seeing reading and readers in a new light

As a Reading Teacher, you should now recognise the wide-reaching benefits of childhood reading. Whilst reading plays a pivotal role in supporting children’s academic attainment, when you observe children’s reading from the stance of a reader, the affective, social and emotional dimensions of reading come more clearly into view. You may notice children beginning to express broader perspectives when talking about issues encountered in texts, or that they recognise the emotions of characters and show empathy.

As you view children’s reading as more than literacy skills, you will become aware that some texts resonate personally with particular children, as they show a greater depth of engagement, or a rise in their level of excitement or curiosity. Through your understanding of children as readers and your knowledge of children’s literature and other texts, you can act upon your observations to enhance their reading journeys and enable them to develop the life changing habit of reading.