A Case for Audiobooks

In 2011, only 11% of Americans listened to an audiobook. Last year, 20% of Americans did. As the popularity of audiobooks has increased, so has research revealing the benefits of audiobooks for students. One of the most obvious benefits is that audiobooks enable students who normally cannot read at grade level to access books written for their age group. They can choose books that interest them without worrying about whether they will be able to struggle through the words on the page. As they listen to books, they also encounter new vocabulary. A UC Berkeley study has reported that we use the same parts of our brains to process the meaning of printed words and spoken words. This suggests that students can develop some reading comprehension skills by listening to audiobooks.

Other studies have more explicitly linked audiobook listening with increased abilities to read printed books. The American Association of School Librarians has published a research study showing that audiobooks have a positive impact on reading skills and attitudes toward reading. Another research study has indicated that providing audiobooks for students with dyslexia can improve reading accuracy and overall school performance while decreasing anxiety. 

Given all of the benefits of audiobooks, this summer is a great time to start listening to stories with your children. If you’re wondering where to access audiobooks, go to your local public library — virtually! Most libraries have a wide selection of audiobooks for kids and young adults that you can download on a phone, tablet, or computer. Looking for a few specific suggestions to get you started? Check out AudioFile’s recommendations for kids and teens. By clicking on an age category at the top of the page, you can explore reviews and find audiobook options to suit your children or your whole family.

For children’s audiobooks with a more dramatic flair, explore the award-winning Storyline Online, where famous actors read children’s books alongside animated illustrations. For audiobooks paired with text, look into Learning Ally, which offers subscriptions to an extensive audiobook collection for students with learning disabilities.

Audiobooks make it easy for the whole family to enjoy a book together. If you have a favorite family audiobook or find a new favorite with your kids this summer, please share it with all of us on Facebook!