As a parent, you want the absolute best for your little one. That means choosing the best foods for their growing bodies, the best schools for their growing development, and the best friends for their growing hearts.
But don’t forget to choose the best for their brains, as well!
As a parent, reading to kids is essential. Keep reading to find out about four key reasons why reading needs to become a staple in your household.
1. Your Children Will Have Larger Vocabularies
There’s a tremendous difference in the vocabularies of kids who are read to and kids who aren’t. How big?
According to some estimates, kids whose parents read five books to them per day hear about one million more words! And that’s just by the time they enter kindergarten.
Reading teaches kids new words, expanding their vocabularies, and strengthening their command of language.
2. Reading Aids Brain Development
Research shows that reading is a simple way to activate creativity and imagination within your children. One study showed that picture books activate three core aspects of a child’s brain:
- Visual perception
- Imagery
- Language
Reading to toddlers and kids often can strengthen the neural pathways between these sections of the brain. As a result, you’re setting your child up for a lifelong love of learning.
3. Reading Can Establish Empathy
Your kids will learn much more than book smarts, however. Reading to your little ones can raise their emotional intelligence, too.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of teaching kids to read is seeing how immersed they get in the story. And make no mistake, that immersion is valuable.
Stories can be a great way to teach kids about the lives and experiences of others. But the lessons learned by rooting for their favorite characters together extend beyond storytime.
By learning empathy from an early age, kids are kinder and more willing to put themselves in the shoes of their peers.
4. It’s a Great Way to Bond With Your Child
There’s no greater joy in the world than feeling your child snuggle up against you. And if nothing else, reading time is a great opportunity to spend quality time with one another.
You’re doing so much more than reading — you’re making memories that will fundamentally shape who your children become.
That alone is a great reason to pick up more books, whether you’re looking for books for 4 years old or books for older kids. The more you read together, the better your bond.
The Importance of Reading to Kids Can’t Be Overstated
Make reading to kids a staple of your day. Together, you’ll foster a love of literature, expand their vocabularies and confidence, make lifelong memories, and so much more.
So don’t wait, grab a book today and start reading with your little ones today. You’ll be glad you did.
And don’t forget, we have tons of great content aimed at helping you be the best parent possible! Make sure to check back with our blog for a constant stream of fresh, new content!