Reading is such a valuable skill with benefits that will assuredly last for life. And it helps to establish good reading habits from childhood.
Benefits of Reading for Children
- An enjoyable way of providing the child with information and understanding about our world
- Stimulates imagination and curiosity
- Introduces emotions and feelings
- Helps in a child’s brain development and concentration as well as language and communication skills
- Promotes a fun way of bonding and learning between the parents and the children
Reading with Newborns / Young Infants (0 – 6 months)
Babies at this age are still in the process of developing their eyesight. Reading or showing high-contrast pictures or illustration books is recommended. The books should be simple, with one photo or illustration per page. It can also contain one or a few words or short phrases you can read aloud to them.
Reading with Infants (7 to 12 months)
Books need to be durable, easy to hold and clean since infants this age will be interested in holding the books and turning the pages themselves. The illustrations or pictures should be big and bright and depict things, actions and events they see in their environment.
Parents should also try to interact with them by pointing out new and familiar things in the book. It will help the infant learn and absorb the words, especially if constantly repeated.
Reading with Toddlers (12 – 18 months)
Toddlers will still enjoy books that show familiar images like animals, adults and children or TV characters, as well as action pictures. But by this age, they can absorb more details. Books with songs repetitive lines are also recommended for better retention. You can also ask your child to choose the book they want to read with you, from new and their favourites.
Reading with Toddlers (19 to 30 months)
By this age, toddlers can follow simple stories and even cause-and-effect books. Numbers, letters, shapes and colours can also be introduced but be careful not to put too much pressure on the child to learn them all yet. It is also possible that the child will ask for the same book over and over. That’s okay for them to familiarize themselves and eventually memorize words, images and other concepts.
Make Reading a Habit
It is up to the parents to encourage the child to be interested in reading. Establishing a routine like reading one storybook every day and setting up a reading nook at home will help motivate the habit.
You can also involve your child by asking leading questions or letting them share (or babble) about the book. But the child must perceive reading as an enjoyable activity. Do not impose or force the habit so it will not leave a negative memory on the child.
Also, reading is not just about strictly reading books. It can be through singing, storytelling, or going through prints on clothes, packaging materials, posters or menus! Anything can be a learning medium!