When to start reading to children
When to start reading to children
When should you start reading to your child and for how long? My baby was born 6 weeks ago and I’ve started reading to him but my family thinks it’s crazy.
There is extensive research highlighting the importance of reading to children as early as possible, so what you are doing is fantastic. Sharing books with your baby is time to connect and engage which enhances the nurturing bond between you and your baby.
It is also a great way to teach language by modelling different words, what they mean and how to use them. This learning is very necessary before his first verbal words emerge around 12 months of age.
Language development is an incredibly important skill which underpins literacy development all the way through early childhood, well before a child enters primary school.
Research shows that the ages 0 - 5 years is the busiest time for a child's brain growth and interactive, engaging experiences between a parent and their child - such as book sharing - are wonderful ways to support and maximise your baby's development during this period.
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