The Benefits for Young Children?
- Builds language and vocabulary skills.
- Creates strong bonds and a social-emotional connection between children and adults.
- Increases brain development as you read the story, show your expression and make sounds of every word.
- Helps children(adults too) calm down, relax and transition to nap or bedtime.
The How?
- Build a library in your home of quality books.
- Visit the local library to check books out and take home.
- Spend time in a bookstore or library reading together.
- Take books everywhere with you.
- Read aloud several times a day.
- Talk with your child about the story you are reading.
- Ask questions about the characters.
- Point to the words on every page as you read.
- Let your child turn the page and hold the book. It is ok if they chew on it. That is part of learning for babies and toddlers.
- Give the gift of your time.
- Create a special book nook, reading fort or cozy place for quiet reading time.
- Put down your device and READ with a child.
Are you looking for more research-based resources? Check out the Virginia Literacy Partnerships at literacy.virginia.edu/resources-families.