THE IMPORTANCE OF READING FROM A YOUNG AGE

Reading is much more than just a way to absorb information and get entertained, it enables society to develop incremental knowledge and grow intellectually as a whole. Good reading habits should start from a very young age. This is especially important for children who might be struggling with a learning disability such as dyspraxia and dyslexia, or children with autism as they might find it difficult to connect with the story or the characters themselves.

Keeping that in mind, we are going to take a look at some reasons why it’s important to read to children from a young age. Let’s get started:

Faster Pace Of Learning-by reading to children, they can develop better language and listening skills. Parents, carers, and nannies should regularly expose children to a wider range of vocabulary. It will positively impact their performance at school because children will have better developed listening skills, memory retention, concentration, and focus.  

Stronger Parent-Child Bonding-studies found that children will open up to parents if they have regular reading sessions before going to bed. Children will speak out about their feeling and it’s easier to spark conversations. Parents should set aside at least 15 minutes of reading session each night to be closer and to bond better with their children.

Spark Imagination-a fantasy land with fairies, dragons, fair princesses, and courageous princes. Storybooks create new worlds for children to imagine. Parents can bring children to places they would never have thought or dreamed of. Stories teach children about the possibilities of many things. With their budding imagination, children can fill in the gaps in the stories and create an imagined world in their minds. The ability to construct an imagined object is a fundamental skill to nurture creativity.

Better Emotional Development-stories can be sad and happy. Children may develop empathy to certain characters in the story. This opens up the possibility of understanding others better. Children who express themselves better are less prone to emotional problems. Children always wrestle with their own emotions and it’s better if parents can encourage children to talk about them.

Improved Mental Wellbeing-mental health crisis is a well-documented problem among children. It’s quite common for children to experience anxiety before exams. Children who have better mental wellbeing will cope better against external influences and will feel more confident. Characters in children’s stories often become role models for kids. Children will try to behave better, be more empathetic and be more disciplined. 

Become Lifelong Readers-as children are turning into adolescents, their interests in book may decline. Parents shouldn’t stop encouraging them to keep reading. They will be more enthusiastic if parents are also avid readers. Parents should continue having reading sessions with their children. After finish reading a chapter, parents and children may discuss the storyline and the characters.

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