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| Books take on a new dimension for seven year olds. Because children
are still in the formal business of learning to read, however, there
is a great difference between what they can read independently and
what they can listen to, understand, and enjoy. Children are now at an age where they can understand that other people have feelings and experiences similar to theirs. A good story will offer them an opportunity to step outside of themselves and into someone else's shoes. While they may enjoy non-fiction books, the same information gathered in the context of a story has greater meaning. Offer children a variety of books with more complex plots and characters. Expand on their interests and provide plenty of easy-to-read books. Always read aloud books that may be a little difficult for them to read independently. FOLKTALES: Children now have a greater grasp of the real and make-believe. Stories that were once too frightening are no longer intimidating to them. These tales belong to "once upon a time" and are adventurous places to visit. Stories should contain of good triumphing over evil. If there is danger involved, it should demand great courage. FAIRY TALES: Through fairy tales, children understand and cope with struggles in life. Characters meet obstacles and are victorious, often gaining a kingdom and along with the respect of everyone. Unlike myths that have tragic endings, or fables that teach lessons, fairy tales should always end happily. Even though children are ready for more sophisticated fairy tales now, they still are not ready for the more gruesome ones. WORDLESS BOOKS: Children are now ready for more complex wordless books because they require closer attention and examination. Details must be interpreted in order to understand what is happening. This skill will help children in their reading comprehension. INFORMATION BOOKS: At this age, children have an appetite for information about the real world and they are beginning to understand the existence of faraway places. For example, they are fascinated by what dinosaurs ate, where they lived and how they looked. CONCEPT BOOKS: As children master their letters and numbers, they now enjoy books that go beyond the simple matching object with symbols. Many riddle-like alphabet books are definitely more challenging. POETRY: Listening is still a priority rather than reading. Children enjoy the rhythmic sounds of verse and enjoy chanting all or parts of a particular favorite. Children seem to enjoy nonsense verse and the fun of playing with words. EASY-TO-READ BOOKS: As children develop their reading skills, parents should read these books aloud. Eventually children will enjoy switching roles and rereading these books on their own. Never should easy-to-read books replace read-aloud books, as both are needed. |