Sea Apple Thoughts: Raising a Reader

August 28, 2023

Reading is one of the most important skills a child can learn. It lays the foundation for success in school and in life. And as a parent, one of the greatest gifts you can give your child is the habit of reading.

Why is it important to read to your child?

There are countless benefits to reading to your child, but here are a few of the most important:

Building vocabulary and language skills: Reading exposes children to new words and helps them develop their language skills.
Developing a love of reading: Children who are read to regularly are more likely to develop a love of reading, which can lead to a lifelong passion for learning.
Improving cognitive development: Reading helps children develop their memory, concentration, and critical thinking skills.
Strengthening the parent-child bond: Reading together is a great way to bond with your child and create memories.

How to Raise a Reader

If you're not sure where to start when it comes to reading to your child, here are some tips to help you get started:

Start early: Even if your child is a baby, it's never too early to start reading to them. Infants may not understand the words, but they will enjoy the rhythm and tone of your voice.
Make it a habit: Set aside a regular time each day for reading. It could be before bed, during lunch, or any other time that works for you. This will help your child develop a routine and look forward to reading time.
Make books easily accessible: keep books visible and reachable around the house. This will help your child feels familiar and comfortable with books.
Let your child choose the books: Let your child pick out the books they want to read. This will help them feel more invested in the reading process and encourage them to read more.
Use different voices: Use different voices for the characters in the book to make it more engaging and fun for your child.
Talk about the book: After reading, ask your child questions about the story. This will help them develop their comprehension skills and encourage them to think critically.
Make it fun: Reading should be fun, so don't be afraid to get silly or creative. Use props or act out parts of the story to make it more engaging.
Use reading and books as a reward: Use reading time or buy your child books as a reward for accomplishing a goal or reaching a milestone. This will help to reinforce positive behaviors and encourage your child to see reading as a fun and enjoyable activity.
Continue reading even as your child gets older: Even as your child gets older and starts reading on their own, it's still important to read to them. This will help them develop their comprehension skills and continue to foster a love of reading.
Set an example: Finally, be a role model for your child by reading yourself. Children are the greatest imitators. When children see their parents reading, they are more likely to develop a love of reading themselves.

Reading to your child is one of the best things you can do to help them succeed in life. By starting early and making it a habit, you can help your child develop strong literacy skills and a lifelong love of learning. So grab a book and start reading!