Influence of children's literature in basic education
The 23 of April, in the framework of the World Book and Copyright Day, took place in the Philosophy Auditorium of the University of Azuay a talk about the importance of reading for children, with students of the Career in Initial Education .
The Subdecana of the Faculty, Diana Lee Rodas, stressed the importance of reading and recalled that stimulating a child to read develops in him qualities such as creativity and imagination.
"Literature leaves traces and memories that remain in the memory and hearts of our children," said Rodas.
Later, the Ecuadorian writer of children's and youth literature Edna Iturralde explained that reading for children is relatively new in the history of universal literature.
Iturralde recalled that the book Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll had a considerable influence on children's literature. This reading was kept for the sole purpose of amusing his audience. That purpose differentiated this story from previous books that were written for children whose sole purpose was teaching.
Iturralde commented that reading, often, is not the most satisfactory activity for some adults, but it is important that they do not influence children with negative comments about reading. Later he added: "Reading corresponds to having a space, when teachers read to children, they should do it with pleasure, so I reiterate, those who do not enjoy reading could disguise it."
The writer shared that she simulated voices and gestures when reading for her children, in order to keep the curiosity in the story awake. In this way the information was assimilated in a better way. Iturralde said: "A child who is interested in reading will always learn."
Keeping a child's curiosity awakened by a book makes them develop motor skills such as association, narration and channeling. In addition, it invites the reader to feel love for other living beings and for nature.
Also, it teaches the reader to be tolerant and respectful, said Iturralde and added that a child who reads will have greater awareness of ethical values, culture, expressiveness and speech. The ability to share with others will also be greater, as it will have a lesser limitation of words and greater sensitivity.
A constant, clear and motivated reading creates in the child a cultural awareness within a social context, the mind will continuously develop a better capacity for focus and concentration.
"This is something that parents do not recognize, investing in reading is investing in the future of their children," concluded Iturralde.
