Does your youngster’s school set set aside time or independent reading in the classroom?Independent reading time is not part of a specific lesson. This segment of the school day allows students to read on their own. The kids read at their desks or  sometimes in a “cozy” part of the classroom.

Independent reading time can indirectly affect learning in many positive ways. How?

First, reading is one of the foundations for educational success. Time spent reading improves reading, and therefore helps build this fundamental skill.

Second, unstructured, unmeasured reading time offers a chance for the whole classroom to slow down and be quiet for a while. That change of pace is important in a school day’s flow.

Third, allowing students to explore their own interests helps them enjoy school and recharge their batteries.

Independent reading time is a school’s acknowledgement that reading itself is a valuable, important element of education.

Many educators agree that independent reading time has far-reaching benefits. Letting children select the reading material that they want, and allowing them to get through the texts at their own pace contributes to student achievement.