The Power and Benefits of Audio Books for Children especially those with ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Emerging and Struggling Readers
May 04, 2025
Audiobooks and reading aloud are powerful tools that can significantly benefit children with ADHD, learning disabilities, emerging readers, and children in general. These practices support literacy development, enhance comprehension, and foster a love for stories.
The Benefits of Audiobooks for Children
1. Enhancing Focus and Engagement for Children with ADHD
Children with ADHD often struggle with sustained attention during traditional reading. Audiobooks can help by providing a multisensory experience that maintains engagement. Listening to audiobooks allows these children to absorb stories without the added challenge of decoding text, which can reduce frustration and improve comprehension. Integrating audiobooks into daily routines can also aid in improving focus and maintaining attention. 
2. Supporting Children with Learning Disabilities
For children with dyslexia and other learning disabilities, audiobooks offer access to literature that might be challenging to read in print. They can improve comprehension and fluency by allowing children to hear the correct pronunciation and rhythm of language. Audiobooks also enable these children to enjoy age-appropriate content without being limited by their reading level.  
3. Assisting Emerging and Struggling Readers
Emerging readers benefit from audiobooks as they can listen to fluent reading, which models proper pronunciation and expression. This exposure helps in developing vocabulary and comprehension skills. Additionally, listening while following along with the text can reinforce word recognition and decoding skills.  
4. Promoting Literacy and Imagination in All Children
Audiobooks can ignite a love for stories in all children, including those who might be reluctant readers. They provide an alternative way to experience narratives, which can enhance imagination and creativity. Moreover, audiobooks can be a gateway to reading, encouraging children to explore books in various formats.  
The Power of Reading Aloud to Children
Reading aloud to children has numerous benefits across different age groups and abilities.
1. Language Development and Listening Skills
Regular read-aloud sessions help children develop language skills, including vocabulary, syntax, and phonemic awareness. They also improve listening skills, which are crucial for academic success. 
2. Strengthening Emotional Bonds
Reading together fosters a sense of closeness and security between the reader and the child. This shared activity can enhance emotional well-being and create positive associations with reading .
3. Supporting Children with Special Needs
For children with special needs, including those with ADHD and learning disabilities, reading aloud can be tailored to their pace and interests, making the experience more accessible and enjoyable. 
Incorporating audiobooks and read-aloud sessions into children’s routines can significantly enhance their learning experiences, catering to diverse needs and promoting a lifelong love for reading. So sign up for a resource like Audible for kids, or grab some old fashion cd's and pop them in a disc player while your child is building with blocks or drawing!
Parenting Alongside You,
Dr. Emma and The Aparently Parenting Team
Audiobook Recommendations by Age Group
Here are some curated audiobook suggestions for children, available on Audible:
Ages 3–5 (Preschool)
• “Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown
• “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle 
Ages 6–8 (Early Elementary)
• “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White
• “Magic Tree House” series by Mary Pope Osborne
Ages 9–12 (Upper Elementary)
• "The Mysterious Benedicts Society"
• “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” series by Rick Riordan
Ages 13+ (Teens)
• “The Hunger Games” series by Suzanne Collins
• “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
Sources:
• National Literacy Trust. (2024). Audiobooks and literacy. Retrieved from https://literacytrust.org.uk/i
• Reading Rockets. Benefits of Audiobooks for All Readers. Retrieved from https://www.readingrockets.org
• Reading Partners. (2021). Listen and learn: How audiobooks can support literacy development. Retrieved from https://readingpartners.org/bl
• Brighton Center. (2023). The Profound Impact of Reading Aloud to Children of All Abilities. Retrieved from https://www.brightonsa.org/202
• Fahim, D. (2017). Value of Reading to Children with Special Needs. Retrieved from https://doniafahim.com/value-o
• Getpeech. (2024). How to Listen to Audiobooks with ADHD: Effective Strategies for Focus. Retrieved from https://www.getpeech.com/blog/
• Natrona County Library. (2024). Listening for Life: The Benefits of Audiobooks for Dyslexia. Retrieved from https://www.natronacountylibra
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