For students learning a second language or navigating a multilingual environment, there often isn’t enough classroom time to fully develop fluency. The school day is filled with core academic subjects—math, science, history—which naturally focus on content rather than language immersion. This is why reading outside of the classroom plays such a crucial role in language acquisition and overall development.
Extensive reading—also known as reading for pleasure—is one of the most effective ways to build language skills and foster a love for learning. Here are three key benefits of reading that have a lifelong impact on students.
1. Readers Become Better Writers
Students who read for pleasure are unconsciously absorbing the structure of well-written language. They learn how sentences are grouped into paragraphs, how punctuation is used for dialogue and narration, and how ideas are developed cohesively. This passive exposure to language has a profound effect on writing skills—students naturally begin to emulate what they see.
In addition, readers regularly encounter new vocabulary. Unlike rote memorization, learning vocabulary through context allows students to infer meaning from the sentence and surrounding words. This builds both comprehension and cognitive flexibility, especially when storybooks are well-matched to the student’s reading level.
2. Readers Gain a Better Understanding of the World
Books offer a window into lives, cultures, and perspectives different from our own. Through stories, students experience the emotions, values, and challenges of people around the globe. They learn empathy, curiosity, and appreciation for diversity. Whether it’s understanding a historical event, exploring a distant country, or feeling connected to a character’s struggle—reading expands students’ worldview in ways textbooks often cannot.
3. Reading Helps Reduce Unproductive Screen Time
In a digital age filled with constant notifications, entertainment apps, and social media, students are spending more time than ever on screens. While some screen time can be educational, much of it is passive and unproductive. Introducing reading as an enjoyable, calming alternative can help students disconnect and recharge their minds in healthier ways.
Parents play a key role in this process. Creating a home environment that supports reading—whether in the family’s home language or in a second language—reinforces what’s happening at school and helps cultivate a long-term reading habit. Even a small home library with age-appropriate storybooks can make a big difference.
Final Thoughts
Reading builds more than vocabulary—it shapes thinking, strengthens writing, and fosters emotional and intellectual growth. Encouraging students to read regularly at home and in school is one of the most valuable investments we can make in their academic journey and personal development.
The next part in this series will share practical tools and resources for parents looking to build a strong reading culture at home.
By Dr. Apiramon Ourairat