Guide for Dads: Reading Aloud is Not Just Women’s Work

Women should not be the only ones reading aloud to children. Fathers, uncles, grandfathers, male family friends, and other guys should be involved too. First, why should women have all the fun of reading aloud? Second, taking time to read aloud to children is one more way for dads to show that children matter to them. Third, dads want boys to see that reading and spending time with children are things that dads do.

Dads can select books that they loved as children. They can select books that have all the favorite male themes that want to use to enhance their children’s emotional and social development. Sports biographies and dramas are all perfect opportunities for dads to show children what they love to read about. The sky is the limit.

Dad reminder: You can start to read to your kids at ANY age. It’s fun for the kids and dad. It really is a dad duty!

- George Jacobs, Ph.D. and Wan Loh Inn, Ed.D.

Dr. George Jacobs, Ph.D. and Dr. Wan Loh Inn, Ed.D. are the authors of many books (including “The Read Aloud Guide”, textbooks for teachers and students, curriculum guides, and children’s storybooks).

If we teach a child to read yet develop not the taste for reading, all our teaching is for naught. We shall have produced a nation of ‘illiterates’ — who know how to read, but do not read. The major purpose for teaching children to read is to help them become readers who readily turn to books for information and enjoyment. - Charlotte Huck

Find out more about reading aloud to your kids.