A gripping book can transport young readers to new and exciting worlds. As a parent, you can support your child’s early education in more ways than one by reading to them every day. From improving language skills to fostering stronger bonds, here are the important benefits books can have on young minds.

Early Education Benefits of Reading to Children

1. Language Skills

Reading to young children helps them understand the relationship between letters and sounds, which can add a greater number and variety of words to their vocabulary. The more words a child understands, the better prepared they will be by the time they reach kindergarten and begin learning how to read on their own. So, when you read to your child as part of their regular bedtime routine, you’re taking an active part in preparing them for a strong academic future.

2. Empathy

Reach for books that incorporate diverse characters, storylines that encompass a range of cultures, and situations that teach your child valuable lessons about expressing their feelings and interacting with others. Books give an excellent opportunity to talk about emotions with your child and encourage them to air their feelings in a healthy, positive way.

3. Motor Skills

When you read to a toddler, they’ll naturally want to point at scenes and characters in the story. Encourage your child to interact with the book by turning the pages, holding it while you read, and interacting with books that feature tactile pages. Developing these motor skills early will better prepare them to start reading on their own.

One of the most positive routines you can develop with your child is a daily reading habit. It’s more than just a great way to support their development—it’s a fun activity to enjoy together. When it comes to early education, it’s only natural for parents to want the best for their children. That’s why families in the Lexington, KY, area have trusted Big Blue Bird Early Childhood Center for more than 40 years with everything from early education programs to infant day care services. To schedule a tour, call (859) 299-9277, or visit them online to read their frequently asked questions.