Summary: What You’ll Learn in This Article
- Why giving kids choice in reading modes reduces stress and builds independence
- How KOBI’s new “Listen” and “Read” options adapt to different languages
- What this update means for bilingual and dyslexic learners
- Practical ways to use listening and reading together at home
- Reflection prompts to notice how your child prefers to engage with stories
Why More Reading Modes Matter
Every child learns differently. Some dive right into reading, others need to hear a story first, and many benefit from a mix of both.
That’s why KOBI’s new Listening & Reading modes are such a big deal. They give kids (and parents) more choice and flexibility – so reading feels less like a struggle and more like an adventure that fits their style.
For kids with dyslexia or other reading challenges, having the option to listen before reading can be the difference between frustration and confidence.
The Science Behind Listening + Reading
Research shows that combining listening with reading helps kids:
- Build comprehension faster – hearing fluent reading supports understanding.
- Strengthen decoding – listening first reduces stress, so kids can focus on patterns and practice.
- Stay motivated – choice increases ownership and willingness to try.
In short: kids learn best when they can approach stories in a way that feels manageable and meaningful.
How the New Modes Work in KOBI
When your child opens KOBI, they’ll now see new mode options (depending on the language of the story):
Listen First
Kids can simply listen to the story, hearing fluent narration while following the text on screen.
Classic Read
Kids read the story themselves – using KOBI’s tools like Magic Finger, Kobification, and Readability for support.
Read Together
In some languages (like English and Spanish), kids still have the full Read Together experience – listening to fluent narration, then reading aloud themselves.
Print for Paper Reading
Prefer the feel of a real book? Every KOBI story can be saved as a PDF and printed. Kids can highlight, doodle, or reread offline – perfect for families who like mixing screen time with paper.
Personalize With Readability Tools
From font and spacing adjustments to background colors, KOBI makes each story easier to follow. These small changes reduce fatigue and help kids focus, no matter which reading mode they choose.
Right now, some languages include both Listen and Read options (like Spanish, Italian, Dutch, and Polish). Others may begin with reading only, until audiobooks are added. We’re expanding step by step – so open KOBI to see what’s available for your family today!
Tips for Parents: How to Use Reading Modes
- Mix it up: Try “Listen first” for a new story, then switch to “Read” on the second round.
- Support dyslexic readers: Let your child listen before reading – it reduces stress and builds confidence.
- Encourage independence: Let kids choose their preferred mode. Ownership makes them more eager to return.
- Explore languages: If you’re raising a bilingual child, use “Listen” in one language and “Read” in another to strengthen both.
Why Homeschoolers & Parents Love the New Modes
- Supports struggling readers with flexible entry points
- Makes reading less stressful, more engaging
- Encourages listening comprehension alongside decoding
- Helps bilingual families practice across languages
Reading Practice, Your Way
There’s no single “right” way to read. Some kids need to hear it. Some want to dive in. Most thrive when they can do both.
With KOBI’s new Listening & Reading modes, you don’t have to force one path. Your child can choose the way they learn best – today, tomorrow, and as their confidence grows.
Key Takeaways
- Listening and reading together strengthen comprehension and confidence
- KOBI now offers multiple reading modes, depending on language
- Options include ‘Listen’, ‘Classic Read’, and ‘Read Together’
- Parents can support dyslexic and bilingual readers with flexible choices
- More languages and modes are on the way – check the app to explore!
