A bedtime story is far more than a source of entertainment or a simple ritual to unwind from the day. More and more we are seeing research that suggests reading to your child (at any age) is an important aspect in their future success and even emotional well being. Here are 5 benefits that science has found connect to family story time.
A stronger parent-child bond
Reading together can be family time, fun time, cuddle time, and listening time. A daily story creates a time for children to express themselves and for parents to listen. Build a conversation around a book and encourage your child to communicate with you.
A long lasting effect on school achievement
A recent study out of Melbourne Australia, indicates that children who are read to 3-5 times per week are six months ahead of their peers in terms of reading. Children who are read to daily are a full year ahead. The study also suggests that children read to more often continue to do better as they move-up in school.
The development of language skills
The language found in books, typically uses a larger vocabulary and more complex grammatical structures than the short, one-sided communication we tend to use when caring for our children. Reading also requires children pay attention to the sounds of language. Hearing each word in terms of syllables, consonants and vowels encourages phoneme awareness, which is basic building block of reading phonetically.
It gives a boost to their self-esteem
Early readers are better able to communicate with peers, teachers and other adults. Research has shown that this increase in communication skills is correlated with a strong self-image and sense of confidence in children. And with increased knowledge and competence comes an increase in confidence. More confidence means a higher self-esteem.
They learn that reading is fun
Reading to your child from an early age will help them view books as a treat instead of a chore. Studies have found kids exposed to reading at a young age are much more likely to choose books over video games, television, and other forms of entertainment as they grow older.
We at Tender Years know that a child’s path to success starts with early education. Reading is just one step on this path. Our unique approach to preschool, pre-k and kindergarten gives every child a distinct advantage when entering school.
