Fantasy and science fiction are more than just genres of entertainment. They can also be a valuable tool for education, as they can help middle-grade children learn about different worlds, ideas, and people. In addition, these genres can also encourage children to use their imaginations and think creatively. In this 3-part series, I explore 10 ways reading fantasy and science fiction will help your middle-grade children grow into happy and well-balanced adults. I have often said that my children’s librarian neighbor, Ms. Crabtree, introducing me to reading for pleasure helped keep me out of trouble mostly, not only as a child but also as an adult. I’m so thankful that many of the books she shared with me were in the fantasy and science fiction genres. It’s no surprise that those are the genres I continue to read and that most of my books are. (You can learn more about my books HERE.)

Fantasy and Science Fiction can take children on amazing journeys

When it comes to children’s books, few genres can whisk kids away on such amazing journeys as fantasy and science fiction. From the high seas and distant planets to entirely new worlds and alternate realities, these novels have the power to ignite imaginations and take readers on unforgettable adventures.

Whether they’re exploring the perils of a magical kingdom or learning the ropes of time travel, kids who read fantasy and science fiction can expect to be transported to places far beyond their wildest dreams. Take, for example, the places I take the Zak Bates Eco-Adventure Team to in that series: the wilds of Africa (Ghost Elephants), the headwaters of the Amazon (in Dominion Over All), and the slums of New York City (in Junkyard Dogs).  Along the way, they just might pick up a few valuable life lessons, too.

So if you’re looking for a book that will whisk your child away on an amazing journey, be sure to check out some of the great fantasy and science fiction titles available today.

Fantasy and Science Fiction can help children understand the world around them

Fantasy and science fiction can help children understand the world around them by providing them with a different perspective on the world. Through these stories, children can learn about different cultures, different ways of life, and different worlds. For example, in Ghost Elephant, young readers will learn about life in the wilds of Africa, both from the elephant’s perspective as well as from the indigenous people that live among them.

In addition, these stories can help children understand the world around them by providing them with a different way of thinking about the world. For example, children can learn to think about the world in a more abstract way, which can help them understand the world around them better.

Fantasy and Science Fiction can help children develop a love for reading

Fantasy and science fiction can help children develop a love for reading. These genres can transport children to new and exciting worlds, introduce them to new and interesting concepts, and inspire them to use their imaginations. Reading fantasy and science fiction can also help children learn about other cultures and worlds, and understand different points of view.

I know that was true for me way back in the fourth grade. When my next-door neighbor, who was also a children’s librarian brought over that first set of books to introduce me to reading for pleasure (a unique and foreign concept at the time), the stack included a lot of fantasy and science fiction. I’ve been hooked going on now for 60-plus years.

Fantasy and Science Fiction can help children broaden their imaginations

Fantasy and Science Fiction can help children broaden their imaginations by providing them with exposure to new and different worlds. These genres can also help children develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they navigate the challenges presented in these stories. In addition, fantasy and science fiction can inspire children to pursue their own interests in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

While I had decided to become a small animal veterinarian when I was about seven, reading fantasy and science fiction, especially those books that included animals as characters, sure helped me stay on the path all the way to graduating from UGA’s College of Veterinary Medicine at twenty-four.

In part 2 of this series, we’ll look at three more ways encouraging your children to read fantasy and science fiction early in life can improve their odds of growing up to be adults you can be proud of.