Fairy tales have been a staple in children’s literature for centuries. They are stories that have been passed down from generation to generation, and have become a beloved part of our cultural heritage. But why are fairy tales so important? In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of reading fairy tales, and why they should be an integral part of every child’s literary diet, and why adults should read them too.
C.S. Lewis was a master of fairy tales, crafting stories that were enjoyed by both children and adults alike. The Narnia series is a beloved classic that has captured the hearts of readers for generations. In 1956, Lewis demonstrated his versatility as a writer by creating a more mature version of the tale of Cupid and Psyche called “Till We Have Faces.” Despite its adult themes, it still retained the magic and wonder of a fairy tale. Lewis firmly believed that fairy tales could be enjoyed at any age and encouraged readers to explore these timeless stories. Inspired by his words, I embarked on my own journey into the world of fairy tales and have been enchanted ever since.
When I was ten, I read fairy tales in secret and would have been ashamed if I had been found doing so. Now that I am fifty, I read them openly. When I became a man I put away childish things, including the fear of childishness and the desire to be very grown up.
C.S Lewis On Stories: And Other Essays on Literature,
Benefits of Fairy Tales
1. Fairy Tales Foster Imagination
Magic, adventure, and wonder fill fairy tales.They take readers on journeys to far-off lands, introduce them to fantastical creatures, and allow them to dream up their own interpretations of the story. By encouraging children to use their imaginations, fairy tales help develop creativity and critical thinking skills. Not to mention coping skills.
2. They Teach Life Lessons
Most fairy tales have a moral or lesson at their core. Whether it’s “beauty is found within” (Beauty and the Beast) or “hard work pays off” (The Little Red Hen), these stories teach valuable lessons about life that can stay with children throughout their lives.
3. They Promote Empathy
Fairy tales often feature characters who are struggling with difficult situations or facing adversity. By reading about these characters’ experiences, children can learn empathy and compassion for others who may be going through similar struggles.
4. They Encourage Reading Skills
Reading fairy tales aloud to children can help improve their language skills, as well as their listening comprehension abilities. Additionally, many fairy tales contain repetitive phrases or patterns that can aid in memory retention and reading fluency.
5. They Create Bonds
Reading fairy tales together as a family can create lasting memories and strengthen familial bonds. The shared experience of enjoying a story together fosters connection and communication between family members.
I wrote this story for you, but when I began it I had not realized that girls grow quicker than books. As a result you are already too old for fairy tales, and by the time it is printed and bound you will be older still. But some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again. You can then take it down from some upper shelf, dust it, and tell me what you think of it. I shall probably be too deaf to hear, and too old to understand a word you say, but I shall still be your affectionate Godfather, C. S. Lewis.
C.S. Lewis The Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe
Reading fairy tales is an important part of childhood development that offers numerous benefits for both children and adults alike. From fostering imagination to promoting empathy and teaching valuable life lessons, there are countless reasons why every child should have access to these magical stories. Get enchanted today! Find all kinds of Fairy Tales at discoverbooks.com. For a list of suggested adult fairy tales, see our March 2023 Reading Challenge.
