SE Illinois News

In honor of National Reading Month, which is celebrated in March, Americans young and old are encouraged to dive into the world of books. The month was chosen to coincide with the birthday of Dr. Seuss, a beloved author of children's stories.

"According to experts, reading comprehension is an important factor in educational and professional growth. Consistent reading has been shown to improve memory, cognitive function, and vocabulary," stated the experts. They emphasized that initiatives like National Reading Month are crucial, especially as youth reading scores are declining nationwide. "Making reading fun is the key to improving these scores," they added.

The experts highlighted the significance of selecting engaging and relatable literature when reading with children. "While reading with children, parents should ensure that the literature is fun, relatable, and enjoyable," they advised. Additionally, they pointed out that dedicating time to read with children is often undervalued. "Consistently making time to read with children is an often overlooked and unappreciated part of this experience," the experts noted.

They further explained, "Children watch everything their parents do, so parents reading will encourage them to read more as well." Therefore, parents setting an example by reading can inspire their children to develop a love for reading.

Illinoisians of all ages are encouraged to celebrate National Reading Month by picking up a book not only during March but also throughout the year.