Read Aloud America

10/15/2026

📚 It might be okay for adults on the go, but for kids it's a different story...

As an adult, you might love a good audio book. It allows you to get lost in a good story while you drive to work, take a walk, or clean the house. And, it's better than falling down the awful rabbit hole of the daily news.
➡️ But remember, you're already a grown reader, and it's easier for you to switch gears to a printed book, appreciating everything that simple experience has to offer. That's not the same for your child.

Take it from our Program Director, Joanne Laird, who is a former teacher and "library lady" with more than 40 years of experience. She points out 2 important things that printed books have, which audio books do not:

❝ Audio books do not have the same effect at a printed book. They might be nice on a long car ride (instead of a video!) but we always recommend that you sit down on your child’s bed with a printed book between you as you read aloud. So often the illustrations are something that help capture your child’s attention as you read aloud. And don’t forget the power of your voice."

Illustrations + Your Voice! Those two important elements capture your child's imagination, inspire curiosity, exercise cognitive engines, and most importantly - strengthen the bond you have with your child.

Bottom line? Printed books can't be beat!

10/13/2026

📚 As the founder of Read Aloud America, Jed Gaines has spent more than 40 years advocating for family literacy. He co-created the Read Aloud Program (RAP), which served more than 350,000 children and adults in Hawaii's public schools over two decades, and has been a sought-after speaker on family literacy since 1985.

➡️ Here's Jed's advice:
"That's a question I've been asked many times at RAP. Many children aren't reading when entering Kindergarten. This isn't a problem, especially if you're reading aloud to your child. Make a commitment and schedule read-aloud time during the early evenings or before bed.

If your child has been read to before entering Kindergarten, chances are they are enjoying the experience and will be building vocabulary. They will be reading when it comes naturally.

Just ENJOY the time sharing read aloud books and then they will eventually want to read on their own. If your child has questions about the book, then answer them, but avoid adding pressure to a naturally pleasant bonding experience by 'quizzing' your child's comprehension or asking too many questions."

Have a question about raising readers? Leave it in the comments—you may see it featured in an upcoming post for "Raising Readers: Ask the Experts." 😀

10/08/2026

📚 Looking for your next great family read-aloud?

If you're raising a middle-grade reader (ages 8–12), Sarah Mackenzie's terrific book recommendations are well worth exploring. Her work continues to encourage families to prioritize reading aloud, and her thoughtfully curated book lists are filled with stories that spark imagination, meaningful conversations, and a deeper love of reading.

And like our Founder, Jed Gaines, has always said: "I truly believe that reading aloud brings families together - and it can change the world."

Which one of these books will you choose to turn an ordinary evening into a memorable read-aloud experience for your family?

Today I want to tell you about five middle grade novels I think you'll love. Some are new, while others have been out for a couple of years. "Middle grade novel," by the way, is

10/01/2026

👀 Children notice what we value.

When they see parents reading books, magazines, newspapers, or even recipes, they learn that reading is part of everyday life.

One thing you can do this school year is become your child's reading role model! Let your children see you reading to pass time, relax, and get excited about something that interests you.

Model curiosity.
Share what you're reading.
Visit the library together.

The result? Your child will see that reading doesn't have to be just about homework... It's a way to enjoy time, recharge, and explore something new.

09/29/2026

➡️ [TEEN BOOKS] Looking for compelling books for teen readers? These standout new releases from the last year are excellent additions to a home library and a great way to keep older readers engaged.

For teens, finding books that connect with their interests is key to building strong reading habits. Reading for enjoyment strengthens vocabulary, comprehension, critical thinking, and perspective-taking while giving the brain space to explore new worlds.

Encourage your teen to choose books that spark curiosity, and watch reading become a meaningful part of their everyday routine. Start with a book from this list!

09/28/2026

❓[FAQs ANSWERED!] Wondering if you’re reading aloud enough, how to handle screen time, or how to carve read-aloud time out of your busy day?

Our latest blog brings together practical, reassuring advice from three Read Aloud America experts to answer parents’ frequently asked questions about raising readers. Discover simple ways to make reading enjoyable, pressure-free, and part of family life.

Read the full blog for expert answers and encouragement!

For over 20 years, you've asked questions about raising kids who love to read. These are your common questions about raising readers - answered!

09/24/2026

💭 Children build knowledge long before they encounter it in the classroom.

Every trip to a museum, visit to a park, family vacation, or conversation about the world adds to what they already know. That background knowledge helps children better understand what they read, make connections, and learn new concepts more easily.

But Jim Trelease reminds us that not every child has access to those experiences.

That's why reading aloud is so powerful.

Books can introduce children to new places, cultures, people, and ideas they may never experience firsthand.

Every story expands their understanding of the world.

Every page helps build the background knowledge that supports stronger reading comprehension and lifelong learning.

09/22/2026

📚 Looking for your child's next great read? These exciting new releases for 2026 are excellent additions to any home library.

These books offer engaging stories that capture the imagination while helping readers build vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills.

As children enter a more independent phase of reading, it's especially important to help them discover books they genuinely enjoy. When reading feels like a choice instead of a chore, they're more likely to develop lifelong reading habits.

Keep these titles on your radar for back-to-school reading, family read-aloud time, or independent reading. A great new book can inspire curiosity, meaningful conversations, and a lasting love of reading!

09/17/2026

📖 A well-loved book may be the best homework helper your child has.

✅ Reading for fun is a powerful cognitive exercise. It strengthens vocabulary, improves comprehension, builds memory, and encourages critical thinking, all while feeling enjoyable rather than like another assignment.
✅ At the same time, getting lost in a great story gives the brain an opportunity to relax, recharge, and imagine. That mental break can improve focus, reduce stress, and help children return to schoolwork with renewed energy.

Encouraging your child to read simply because they enjoy it supports both academic success and emotional well-being. Sometimes the most valuable learning happens when children don't even realize they're learning at all!

09/15/2026

📚 These brand-new 2026 releases are wonderful additions to your family's bookshelf and the perfect way to keep read-aloud time fresh and engaging.

Perfect for emerging readers, they offer unique stories that spark curiosity, laughter, and meaningful conversations. Plus, since these books were just released only months ago, your child will love listening to something new - new concepts, new narratives, new vocabulary, and new perspectives...

Which book will you try first?