Scientific studies have shown that instilling the habit of reading in children from a young age, especially during the first five years of life, is a valuable gift they will carry with them throughout their lives. But how can parents help their children develop a reading habit?
Start a Daily and Consistent Routine
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Susan B. Neuman, a literature researcher at the University of Michigan, USA, confirms that children whose parents read to them early will have significantly better reading and writing skills when they start school compared to their peers. This ability will continue to develop as the child grows. If you read a book with your child every day, you are helping them build a good habit.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Books
With the motto “one book a day,” it’s essential to choose age-appropriate books for your child; otherwise, it can be ineffective and unscientific, as the mind of a two-year-old is different from that of a five-year-old. Start with books that have many illustrations. When your child is able to articulate clearly, that’s when you can begin. Depending on your child’s level of interest, adjust your reading approach. Illustrated books are particularly useful for teaching them to recognize everyday objects. Next, choose simple stories with themes of friendship, family love, and songs, as these will help children develop a proper understanding of life.
Fostering Interest and Love for Reading
Regardless of your child’s age or the type of book, always remember that the approach is incredibly important. There are many methods to read with your child, but a common rule is to stimulate their interest and passion for knowledge on each page.
To achieve this, create a friendly atmosphere between parent and child by sitting together at a table or cuddling them in your lap while they face the open book. Start with a few pictures or short sentences to naturally capture their attention to the story, then encourage them to keep reading, and don’t forget to ask them a few questions.
Encourage your child to engage with the story actively. Pause the narrative to prompt them to think about the next scenario. This will be the first evidence of their creativity.
After finishing the story, you should immediately ask your child what they found most interesting in the tale. This not only helps them practice their language skills but also encourages them to retain the story in their own unique way.
