March is National Reading Month!

March is National Reading Month!

Yes, of course students should learn to read. That’s been understood for generations. However, many don’t understand just how important literacy is to the development of the student, starting at a very young age.

Let's talk about some ways student literacy impacts a young mind:

"Self Esteem: This might be the most important area of all. The sooner students develop reading skills, the more they gain ground in the areas listed below. That leads to more assurance in how they speak and write, as well as giving them the confidence of an expanded knowledge base. When students start at an early age to read about diverse people, distant places, and historical events, they become more creative and open. Also, those who have read a lot will naturally be asked to answer more questions – another confidence builder for a young student.

Improved Concentration: An emphasis on reading and student literacy helps develop higher levels of focus and concentration. It also forces the reader to sort things out in their own mind – including topics that might not be familiar to them at all (Paris at the end of World War II, for example, or another planet in a science fiction novel). This type of concentration on one topic – rather than trying to do many things at once – leads to better focus even after the book is put down.

Critical and Analytical Thinking Skills: The classic here is when a young reader becomes absorbed with a mystery book – Hardy Boys or Nancy Drew were examples for generations of Americans – and manages to solve the mystery in her head before the books reveal it. That’s a simple example of how reading helps students develop better critical and analytical skills, something that carries over even after they have put the book down.

Stronger Memory Skills:  Think about reading. Even an elementary age child with a relatively simple book must keep in mind a group of characters, the setting, and past actions. Reading helps to strengthen memory retention skills. That’s a powerful tool for young students – and older adults, as well.

Expanded Vocabulary: How many times do we all search for just the right word to express what we’re trying to say? Readers do that less. They have a larger vocabulary, and the words that young readers learn in a book will eventually make their way into their speech. These are some of the most powerful ways that reading is important for student success. For those who have decided to teach children at the elementary school level, the impact they make on students in this vital area can resonate throughout the rest of their lives. These are some of the most powerful ways that reading is important for student success. For those who have decided to teach children at the elementary school level, the impact they make on students in this vital area can resonate throughout the rest of their lives"

*Source: 5 Reasons Reading is So Important for Student Success

"More Empathy: Students who are reading consistently have been noticed to increase their empathy. This is because they are reading books that explore the inner world of the characters, their thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Students get a better understanding of how other people see the world and this improves their empathy. Empathy is important in any relationship and it can ensure your academic success. You can communicate effectively with your peers and professors."

"Reducing Stress: Reading is a relaxing activity that is known to alleviate stress. Stress is a healthy emotion if it’s not in high doses when it becomes dangerous for your physical and mental health. Students are stressed, especially near the exam period. But when you read, you immerse yourself in a different reality. You disconnect from the stress you are feeling daily, so its intensity is dwindling."

*Source: Importance Of Reading | 6 Reasons Reading Is So Important For Student Success

Read more from the ARS Wellness Committee here.

Let's Build Your Child's Home Library!

The next Scholastic Book Fair here at American Renaissance School is March 13-17, 2023!

All purchases benefit our school and connect kids with new books, favorite characters, complete series, and more.

Parents, find out more on how to set up eWallet, a safe cash-free way for your child to shop the fair: https://bit.ly/3IlfAma

About ARS:

American Renaissance School is a K-8 public charter school in Historic Downtown Statesville, NC.

Our mission is to ensure a standard of academic excellence by providing a nurturing environment that allows each child to reach their fullest potential as students and citizens.

Our vision is to be the best choice for education in North Carolina. Our board, administration, staff, and teachers, with parental and community input, have identified our core beliefs and core values, which in turn are reflected in our strategic priority areas. These guide our daily operations at all levels.

Learn more about ARS here.