August 9 is Book Lovers Day in the United States and a perfect way to celebrate literature in all forms! Reading is such an integral part of everyday life. Simply cooking a recipe, reading washing instructions on a clothing tag, or texting a friend all require the ability to read and comprehend.
Starting while your child is still very young can be impactful in increasing literacy in the long run. Babies and children enjoy books and songs that include rhymes, repetition, and rhythm. Storytelling, singing, or looking at picture books, can also teach babies about sounds, language, and recognizing images.
Additionally, reading stories to children can:
- Spark imagination and stimulate curiosity
- Teach them the difference between ‘real’ and ‘pretend’
- Assist children in understanding new, scary, or emotional situations
- Introduce them to the world and different cultures
- Increase attention span and ability to focus
- Improve social and communication skills
- Build self-confidence and independence
- Expand their vocabulary
- Leads to their future success
While reading stories, kids can embrace a new world, where they are immersed in characters and experiences that teach them about themselves and their surroundings.
Developmentally, around the ages of 4 or 5, your child is likely to develop some basic reading ability. They may already know the letters of the alphabet and be able to spell their own name. The most important part of reading at this stage is to create a positive experience for your child. Mistakes can discourage new readers so instead of overemphasizing errors, praise and provide positive reinforcement for their effort.
These amazing developmental successes are a major incentive for reading to your child, but most importantly, reading aloud can make a connection between something they love so much—your voice, and being close to you—and books. As children grow up, they associate books with happiness, fond memories, and closeness.
Try to create a consistent schedule where you read to your children every day. Many parents find that reading to their children right before they go to bed creates a nighttime routine that helps them to wind down.
If you are interested in connecting with other families, check out local libraries! Many libraries host storytimes that are usually age-specific and allow social interaction while reading! Some libraries may have Spanish storytimes or baby storytimes. While at the library, give your child the freedom to choose their own books. If they are in charge of the selection process, it gives them a sense of ownership and enjoyment in what they are reading.
Lastly, let your child see you read! Children learn from and mimic what they observe, so by setting an example by reading your own books, they are more likely to pick up a story on their own and place more importance on reading (even if it’s just looking at pictures or turning pages).
Teaching your child to enjoy reading can help you to celebrate Book Lovers Day all year long!
