Audio storytelling is nothing new. Storybooks with accompanying cassette tapes that read the story as children followed along (“you will know it's time to turn the page when you hear the bell”) were popular in the ‘80s and early ‘90s. Many parents may also remember the “Teddy Ruxpin”® bear, whose mouth, eyes, and limbs moved as he told stories and sang songs.

Audio for children is still available and has been updated for the 21st century and its children. It is once again possible to find books with accompanying CDs or just CDs or even books with computer chips built in. Books that combine reading with audio can help improve a child's reading ability and also begin introducing a child to the joys of reading.

As he or she listens to the audio repeatedly over and over again, eventually, the child will begin recognizing words. This is especially helpful when referring to specific “sight” words such as “the,” “an,” “for” and others. These words children will be expected to know when they begin school. They should be able to say them as soon as they see each word rather than have to sound it out.

Audio books can also be a lifesaver during long car trips for parents. Mom and Dad may not necessarily want to hear the story retold over and over; however, knowing that the children are entertained will be worth the inconvenience. The love of reading is something that will continue to help a child as he or she progresses throughout his or her life. The sooner it is instilled, the sooner the child will regard reading as a pleasure and not a chore. Audio books can help with that as the child will come to equate books with enjoyment and will want to continue reading as they get older.

Audio books are a good way of introducing older children to some of the classics. Edited and condensed versions of such works as “Treasure Island” or “Kidnapped” (just to name a couple) are or will soon become available. Written in simpler language, they will entice the child to want to read the original version when he or she is older, thus learning how to recognize and enjoy fine literature.

These materials can be purchased in many different places as well as ordered online. Websites such as shooflyaudio.com provide audio books for children, plus music for kids and poetry in an audio magazine format. For all their convenience and means of enjoyment to children, audio storytelling should never replace a human storyteller. Even if a parent sits and holds the child on his or her lap while both are listening, it's the human contact and undivided attention that the child will remember long after the audio books for children have been forgotten.

Find some audio books and share the joys of reading with your child. Don't worry too much about content, just find a few different subjects, a comfortable place to sit, open the pages and watch your child discover the world that is waiting out there.