When we think of boosting our kids academics, we often think of preschool and up. There’s no doubt that reading to preschoolers has proven benefits, but it turns out babies can benefit from being read to as well.
Before infants are old enough to hold their own book, they are able to listen. Language development is a big part of this stage, and they need spoken words to help them begin learning that language.
When a caretaker is cuddled up with that baby and reading them a story, that infant is being exposed to new vocabulary, and more words to help them process human language.
Science backs this up. Studies show that infants who were read at least one book a day starting at two weeks of age showed improved language development as early as 9 months of age.
By the time they start school, the difference can be huge. Children who were read to as infants showed better fine motor skills, literacy, and language developement compared to those who were not regularly read to.
Increased Bonding
Of course, better language isn’t the only benefit. Not only are children learning more words, they’re also familiarizing themselves with the sound of the voice reading to them. The feeling of feeling secure with their parent of guardian, the sound of their voice, and the regular routine can help build a better bond with that person.
Logical Thinking
Every story has a theme. Even the simplest picture books featuring just one word per page are often color, number, or letter based. Stories have a story arch, people solve problems in them.
Although your baby may not start out understanding these concepts, their brain is busy at work laying a framework to make use of all these new categories. By the time they reach preschool, they have a head start in understanding things like consequences for actions take in a book, how different choices can be made, and various patterns and categories.
Developing a Passion for Books
With so many things competing for your child’s attention, it’s easy for books to fall by the wayside. A love for books starts early, and the earlier the better. When reading time is a chance for an infant to get your exclusive attention in a pleasant way, it can help foster that love.
Becoming a strong reader requires more time spent reading books then strictly at school. It requires many hours of pouring over books, reading beloved stories again and again to strengthen those vital skills.
Reading early, so their first memories are the joy of reading with a parent, can help foster a passion that will last them a lifetime.
What to Choose
If you are eager to start reading to your newborn, there’s many different books available to choose from. The best books for children under 6 months of age include large pictures and good contrast.
These types of picture books are easier for baby eyes that don’t quite focus so well. There are picture books available especially designed for baby vision, and these are good choices as well.
After 6 months to a year of age, the pictures and words can be more refined. Choose books with every day objects your child will be familiar with. Books about items around the house, dogs and cats, or even other babies may not seem interesting to you, but they will be of great interest to the baby.
Reading to your child is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. With the help of your local library, it can even be free. Making time to read to your child can help them their whole life.
