Listening makes you smart

Robber Hotzenplotz, Jim Button, or The Little Witch are popular audio plays. But why should children listen to songs and stories at all? We have delved deeper into the topic of “listening” because we want to know what role sound and language play in children’s development – and what hörbert can contribute to it.

First, the little ones cry, then they say mama or papa, and eventually – around the age of two, many talk non-stop like a radio. At that point, language should be specifically trained and practiced with songs and audio plays, says hearing expert Helga Kleinen. She knows: “Listening is the basis for successful communication.” Because nobody likes monotone or boring speeches. It is important to convey knowledge with fun, make moods tangible, and create suspense. At the same time, hörbert can also tell interesting facts about professions, stories, or countries. By the way: according to the project of the Hearing Initiative and the State Media Authority in North Rhine-Westphalia, those who listen should have an easier time in school and work. Skilled listeners resolve conflicts more easily and learn faster.

You will quickly notice that Pettersson and Findus, Leo Lausemaus, or the adventures of the little dragon Coconut have many exciting stories to tell. Those who listen learn: “The vocabulary grows, the language becomes richer and more colorful,” agrees Helga Kleinen, who has been advocating for better listening since 1997. Furthermore, audio plays stimulate the imagination. “Sounds create images in the mind,” explains the expert. Or don’t you also think of Benjamin Blümchen when you hear Törööö?

A study by the University of Lüneburg proves: when parents talk a lot with their children and read to them, their language skills develop. They read more fluently, are more motivated, and their reading comprehension improves. And if someone from distant lands comes here, hörbert helps with audiobooks to learn the new language more easily. Of course, you should make sure that the selection of audiobooks is age-appropriate.

“A good audio play invites you to go on a voyage of discovery and look behind things,” explains Helga Kleinen. The personality of the characters is crucial. If a hero is only good or a villain is only evil, stories become boring for children quickly. A hero should have courage and cunning. Just like Robin Hood. Whether it’s about everyday problems, a treasure hunt on a distant island, or an argument with the Latin teacher. With a little listening practice, feelings are quickly recognized and empathy is taught.

It is important to us to accompany your children in their learning process. Whether in the forest, by the lake, or at the beach – hörbert belongs in children’s hands. Simply listen and immerse into the adventure land.