Why Teachers Should Read Children's Books

Teachers who read for pleasure have better book knowledge...thus are stress-free in the classroom. There is value in teachers becoming reading role models. Teachers' knowledge of children's literature contributes to a child's enjoyment of reading.
In order for reading to become"bibliotherapy" readers should identify with characters met in a strory and form emotional connections with them...via writing-in-role, hot-seating activities.
Reading can induce well-being and a sense of joy. But our teachers need support. They need knowledge on good books available, know how to access these books, have indepth knowledge of various reading skills and strategies, and informal sharing sessions via book clubs.
This is a movement that needs immediate attention by policy makers, educators and community members.

Adapted from Jo Bowers and Dr Susan Davis, 2013