Many people have read or are at least familiar with a beloved children’s book or series growing up. Whether you’ve grown up with Margery Williams’ The Velveteen Rabbit or Roald Dahl’s extensive collection of whimsical tales, one cannot deny that there is a certain book that will always bring you back to your childhood. No matter how many times you’ve read about Harry Potter’s train ride to Hogwarts, the magic of reliving your childhood with these beloved characters will always stay in your heart no matter how old you get.
Children’s literature has been a staple in pop culture for centuries, inspiring countless adaptations that helped shape one generation after another. Nevertheless, one erroneous viewpoint that people often make regarding children’s books is the belief that these books are only for the young.
However, that belief couldn’t be further from the truth as reading children’s books well into your mature age can bring benefits! Here are some reasons why adults should read children’s books:
1. It encourages imagination.
In a world of fiction where many places are based in real life or contemporary times, there’s something whimsical about reading a story in a setting where anything can happen. Whether it’s a kingdom accessible via a wardrobe or a seemingly endless chocolate factory, children’s stories tap into your creative side by engaging with your imagination, while also having relatable characters!
One reason it’s important to engage in our imagination is that imagination is the key to innovation. Think about it, without imagination, countless modern-day conveniences wouldn’t exist, whether it’s vaccines, cell phones, and the ability to explore space! What a boring life it would be if adults lost their creativity!
Additionally, imagination is the key ingredient that all successful leaders share. According to the About My Brain website, Bill Gates and Steve Jobs used their imaginations to envision how personal computers can change our lives and the world. With these in mind, imagination can help us reach newer and greater heights.
2. Children’s books contain great moral lessons.
Whether it’s fairy tales or brief picture books, nearly every child’s book has a moral lesson that teaches readers values they can apply to everyday life.
One example is Virginia Ironside’s “The Huge Bag of Worries,” which talks about sharing your problems with others to solve them together.
“The Invisible Boy” by Trudy Ludwig teaches children the power of empathy and how making someone feel welcomed can do wonders.
A.A. Milne’s “Winnie the Pooh” talks about cherishing our friends and the lessons we learned from each other.
If you’re a parent or a teacher, having these books on hand can be a great way to introduce children to some important life lessons.
3. It helps you relax.
Reading takes you on a journey regardless of where you are. Whether you’re reading in bed, on a tablet, or your computer—reading can bring you to places you’ve never been before. Reading is also a great stress reliever because it allows you to escape the stressors of daily life.
In a physical sense, reading also helps your body relax by lowering your heart rate and easing any muscle tension, which has been proven in a 2009 study at the University of Sussex. The same study also claims that reading works better and faster in reducing stress than other relaxation methods like listening to music or drinking tea.
4. It connects you with your inner child.
Reading the books you’ve enjoyed in childhood is an effective way of connecting with your inner child. Connecting your inner child is important because it will help raise self-awareness and allow you to confront past wounds that have yet to heal while also giving you a chance to remember the joys and innocence of childhood.
While not everyone has a good childhood, connecting with one’s inner child can help you resolve some problems you’ve never had the chance to. Doing inner child work is like starting over again and ensuring your childhood self is cared for.
So, if you missed the days of childhood wonder and carefree times, consider rereading a book you loved as a child—you’ll be surprised at how easily the memories come flooding back!
5. It gives you perspective through a child’s eyes.
Aside from connecting with your inner child, adults who read children’s books can gain a new perspective on how children see the world and act accordingly.
Reading children’s books also makes it easier for parents and teachers to understand, empathize, and connect with their children or students. When we take the time to learn and understand children, we can ensure that we’ll eventually foster a healthy and respectful connection.
Some Final Thoughts:
Children’s books are not just for kids! Adults who have read many readers can still gain something new, even if they’re reading a picture book or a beloved series from their younger days.
Children’s literature has always been a driving influence in popular culture, especially when stories or characters depicted in books, movies, and television shows help shape or represent generation after generation.
Anyone can benefit from reading a children’s book even if you’re not a parent or teacher yourself. Considering that many stories of this genre deal with various topics, it’s unsurprising that you’ll learn the power of music through a symphony orchestra with animal musicians or the meaning of true love after meeting a little prince. With so many options available, you can be assured your possibilities are endless!
However, if you are a parent looking for ways to connect with your child, now may be the time to start a reading habit with your little one. Consider getting a few books for your child, schedule “reading time,” and take a day trip to your local library!
Teachers can also follow suit by encouraging reading time, introducing the basics of using a library, and having book discussions with the class. Who knows? You might be giving your child the best treasure any parent could give by introducing them to the wonders of reading. Good luck!