Photo by Yan Krukov

As it is said, reading is to the brain what exercise is to the body.

Language is the most powerful tool humanity possesses. And reading is one of the most effective and fulfilling means to master this tool. Reading, if taught at an early age, helps brain development and enhances imagination. Reading to a kid and building this habit is never too soon. It is a gift for a lifetime.

Benefits Of Reading For Young Kids

This article shares some of the excellent benefits of reading for young kids:

1. Cognitive development. Kids gain a deep understanding of their world and get background knowledge. This aids them in making sense of what they hear, see, and read, which helps their cognitive development.

2. Better vocabulary. Reading at an early age helps children learn new words and ways to express themselves, improves their grammar, and teaches new concepts.

3. Enhanced empathy. Reading allows children to understand various emotions. This helps their social and emotional development since they learn to equate their feelings with words and look for a way to express themselves better. Books showcase various perspectives and characters, which allows children to be more empathetic. The cause-and-effect concept in stories aids progress in their analytical skills, not to mention encouraging curiosity (which is crucial to learning). 

4. Bonding between parent and child. Reading time is perfect for kids and parents to unwind and connect. Children love to hear stories from their parents, while parents find it soothing to be in the space of fantasy and wonder. Levels trigger questions and conversations that help a child express and learn. Aside from the enjoyable ritual, it also starts a positive association in a kid’s imagination.  

5. Sparks curiosity. Stories penetrate parts of the world yet unknown to kids; only a curious mind attempts to learn. Various topics present possibilities to children and intrigue them. A book on famous artists, butterflies worldwide, or the universe may inspire kids to learn more and explore further. It also allows kids to learn about different people and cultures. 

6. Develops concentration. Consistent and regular reading helps to improve children’s concentration abilities. Listening and sitting still for long periods builds patience that allows them to be at school.

7. Creativity. The use of imagination can be encouraged by reading a book. Characters, situations, costumes, dialogues, and buildings create a picture impression while reading. This imagination ignites further creativity that may aid build other life skills. 

Building This Wonderful Habit At An Early Age

Books and storytelling are an inherent part of a kid’s preschool culture. Here are some tips on how parents (even teachers) can build a reading habit in kids:

Start early. Reading to a young infant may seem futile, but it is not. Kids love to hear their parents’ soothing voices and watch their expressions for cues. This habit creates a sense of routine and security for them, ensuring they enjoy reading as they grow older. Investing in cloth books, touch-and-feel books, puppet books, and board books with ample illustrations would be an excellent place to start.

It is all in the picture. Young children respond well to images and colors. Books with rich illustrations, such as pop-up books or 3D images, are ideal. The association children make between visuals, and the limited text will help them learn new words and expressions during reading time. 

Let them choose. Allowing children to pick up books will always ensure more interest. This ability to choose gives them a sense of power and makes them stick to their decisions.

Set an example. Children learn by imitation. When they see their parents read, they will be curious and want to imitate. Habits and enthusiasm are always contagious.

Final Words

Make a huge difference in your kid’s life! Remember, you are the most important educator in your kid’s life (even more important than their teachers), and it is never too early to start reading together. 

Start your reading time with Ruthanne’s books for children. This book is a collection of eleven short stories that has something for children ages three to young teens. “Buster Bunny’s Thanksgiving,” for instance, is a short story that young children can enjoy in which Mrs. Bunny sends Buster to the woods to harvest berries for Thanksgiving pie and gets into trouble. Another favorite is “Mila the Little Turtle,” where Hudson receives Mila as a birthday present. Lastly, “The Magic of Snowflake” is a popular fable among young girls, wherein a white kitten with magical powers arrives on a moonbeam at the home of Emma. Aside from this story, there are more stories that you can read, and learn a lot of morals from each character. Something that people of all ages will enjoy reading!***

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