Which statement about reading aloud is supported by evidence?

Which statement about reading aloud is supported by evidence?

• A. It is one of the most powerful activities parents can do to support literacy.
• B. It has little impact on literacy.
• C. It should be avoided.
• D. It should be replaced by screen time.

Answer: (A)

Reading aloud to children provides abundant language exposure and helps them hear how words and sentences work, which builds vocabulary, syntax, and overall language skills. Research over many years shows that frequent read-aloud experiences predict stronger oral language, early literacy skills like phonological awareness, print concepts, and higher later reading achievement. When caregivers read with expression, pause for questions, and talk about the pictures, children practice comprehension, learn new words, and develop a positive attitude toward reading. Establishing a regular shared reading routine creates a supportive literacy environment that benefits children from a very young age. So the statement that reading aloud is one of the most powerful activities parents can do to support literacy aligns with the evidence. The other options contradict what research shows: reading aloud does have a meaningful impact, it should not be avoided, and it isn’t simply replaceable by screen time, which often lacks the interactive language engagement that supports literacy development.

Reading aloud to children provides abundant language exposure and helps them hear how words and sentences work, which builds vocabulary, syntax, and overall language skills. Research over many years shows that frequent read-aloud experiences predict stronger oral language, early literacy skills like phonological awareness, print concepts, and higher later reading achievement. When caregivers read with expression, pause for questions, and talk about the pictures, children practice comprehension, learn new words, and develop a positive attitude toward reading. Establishing a regular shared reading routine creates a supportive literacy environment that benefits children from a very young age.

So the statement that reading aloud is one of the most powerful activities parents can do to support literacy aligns with the evidence. The other options contradict what research shows: reading aloud does have a meaningful impact, it should not be avoided, and it isn’t simply replaceable by screen time, which often lacks the interactive language engagement that supports literacy development.