When reading stories to children, should open-ended questions be used?

Open-ended questions should indeed be used when reading stories to children. These types of questions invite children to think more deeply and express their thoughts and feelings about the story. By encouraging children to reflect, predict, and connect the story to their own experiences, open-ended questions foster critical thinking and enhance comprehension skills. This interactive approach also supports language development as children articulate their ideas and engage in dialogue.

Using open-ended questions can also promote a sense of agency in young learners, as they become active participants in their own learning process. Providing space for children to explore their thoughts encourages creativity and imagination, both essential components of early literacy.

In contrast, the other options suggest limiting the use of open-ended questions, either by excluding them entirely or restricting their use based on age or the child’s initiative. This would miss the opportunity to enrich the reading experience and may hinder engagement and learning.