Why dads should be reading to kids!

Mums you asked for it at the parent information evening, and here it is!
Just a few things research has to say about why dads and other males need
to be reading more with your kids.
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Children do better academically when their fathers are involved in

literacy activities. Studies show that boys whose fathers read
recreationally with them score significantly higher in reading assessment
than boys whose fathers do not read with them (Carroll and Lowe,
2010; Trelease, 2007; Flouri and Buchanan, 2004; Nord,
1997).
Children whose fathers have read to them from a young age have
increased cognitive abilities, social competence and self esteem than children
whose fathers have not (Carroll and Lowe, 2010; Ortiz, 2000).
Reading is often thought of by boys as a girly thing to do. When
dads show an interest in reading it helps boys recognise reading can be
enjoyable for them too and isnt something just for the girls (Zambo
and Brozo, 2009).
It helps teach children to be calm. Fathers normally wrestle with their
kids or play outside, often riling them up. Fathers who read with
their children after playing helps kids to learn that there are times for
play and times to calm down (Carroll and Lowe, 2010).

Reference:
Carroll, J. & Lowe, K. (2009). Boys, Blokes and Books: Engaging boys in reading. Faculty of Education:
Canberra University. Retrieved 16/02/2012
http://www.englishliteracyconference.com.au/files/documents/Janet%20Carroll%20and%20Kaye%20Lowe.pdf
Flouri, E., & Buchanan, A. (2004). Early father's and mother's involvement in their child's later educational
outcomes. British Journal of Educational Psychology , 74 pp.141-153.
Nord, C., Brimhall, D., & West, U. (1997). Fathers' involvement in their children's schools.
US Department of Education.

Washington, DC:

Ortiz, R. (2000). The Many Faces of Learning to Read: The Role of Fathers in Helping Their Children to
Develop Early Literacy Skills. Multicultural Perspectives , 2 (2) pp.10-17.
Trelease, Jim. The Read-Aloud Handbook, 2006-2007 ed. New York: Penguin Books.
Zambo, D & Brozo, W.G (2009) Bright beginnings for boys: Engaging young boys in active literacy. International
Reading Association. USA.