Hearing a beloved story is comforting. Children know what to expect and each time you read the book they look forward to their favorite parts. For new and developing readers, hearing the same story over and over teaches them unknown words and reinforces words they already know.

And for children who are reading independently, hearing the same story is like connecting with a best friend. You know what to expect and you’re rarely disappointed.

Certain books will be especially appealing to your child.  This may be because of the pictures, the story, how the story was written, certain words or phrases, the presence of humor or suspense, or the subject matter. Hearing the same story allows children enough familiarity to be able to predict words or take a “book walk”, describing what is happening on the page using the pictures rather than the words. These favorite books often become the first books that children read on their own. This happens after many, many readings.

Many children enjoy having the same conversations about the story; sharing reflections, opinions and the connections you share. Hearing the same book over and over may seem like a reading challenge. But once you know the value your child gets from repetitive readings, it may sweeten the experience. Because reading with your children can be one of parenting’s many pleasures.