If you want your children to be intelligent, read them fairy tales. If you want them to be more intelligent, read them more fairy tales.
Albert Einstein
There is evidence to show that stories create new neural connections in a child’s brain by stimulating the growth of neurons as they process and visualise the words of the story. And this is certainly not exclusive to fairy tales! Stories not only create magical escapism and a sense of wonder, but they can teach us about life, about ourselves, and about other people. Stories are a unique way for children to develop an understanding and appreciation for other cultures, and they promote a positive attitude to diversity.
Encouraging pupils to read stories more is something I do a lot. Here are a few reasons why:
