Reading to your child from as early as infancy, is beneficial for language acquisition and the development of literacy skills. Not only are you building and cultivating a bond with your child when you read to him or her; the brain is being stimulated as it processes the information being fed to it.
Reading exposes children to learning more about the world in which they live. They can learn about different countries and cultures, how things work, different occupations, and even why they feel certain emotions. A book can help children to relax and unwind as they sit quietly and focus on the visuals on the page and interpret in their minds what the pictures and words mean to them.
As the child gets older, ask questions about what was read. This helps to expand his or her vocabulary and tells how much is understood from what was read. Learning new words also help with communication skills. Remember to choose books that reflect diversity. It is important for children to learn about people and things that are different from what they are accustomed to.
When children show an interest in books, use it as an opportunity to cultivate their interest. Take them to the library or bookstore and allow them to choose their own books. Make time to read the books with them. Don’t be surprised if they have a favourite book which they want to read repeatedly.
Reading to your child helps to develop an imaginative mind as the child may even create and tell his or her own story. The rewards of reading are endless, so read a book a day and watch your child’s imagination and self-expression blossom.
