Start Reading to Your Child Early… Even During Infancy

We’ve all heard that it is important to read to our children from an early start. But did you know that even reading to newborns has its benefits? Sure, they may not understand what they are hearing. However, the process will be the perfect way to develop a pattern of learning that will benefit your child as they grow. It will help develop their vocabulary, reading and listening skills, and so much more.

Bonding & Development

According to Parents, starting reading early is important for bonding with baby. “It exposes the baby to the sound of your voice, which is soothing.” Spending this one-on-one time with your infant is excellent for their development at this early age. Find a simple book with lots of pictures so your infant is interested in the shapes and colors. Your voice will be their guide and their comfort. And according to KidsHealth, “It’s an important form of stimulation and communication.” It helps their emotional development too.

Vocabulary

Not only is this reading time something the baby will enjoy before naps or bedtime, but their brains will begin soaking in the information and gaining intelligence. Yes, even from this tender age. As per Parents, “Studies have also shown that children who were read to as newborns have a larger vocabulary, as well as more advanced mathematical skills, than other kids their age. There’s also a direct link between how many words a baby hears each day and her language skills.” We all want our kids to have that extra boost when it comes to doing well in school. Do your part by advancing their vocabulary in this simple way as much as possible.

Intelligence

KidsHealth notes, “By the time babies reach their first birthday they will have learned all the sounds needed to speak their native language. The more stories you read aloud, the more words your child will be exposed to and the better he or she will be able to talk.”

According to NY MetroParents, “The more words parents use when speaking to an 8-month-old infant, the greater the size of their child’s vocabulary at age 3.” So, read, read, read! Your baby will be better for it. They will embrace reading from the get-go and develop of love of reading that can last a lifetime.

What books did you read to your infant? We’d love to share some recommendations with the AMC community.

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