Reading is one of the best ways to enjoy a calm moment with your child and prepare them for their academic future. Through fun, fantastical tales, you can dedicate a bit of time every day to bonding with your child and sharpening the language skills. Below are some of the many ways that reading can aid in early childhood development.

Why Read With Your Young Child?

Develops Language Skills

Children build their vocabulary and learn basic grammar in their early years, absorbing everything they hear. By reading to your child, you can teach them new words and basic sentence structures. When reading a picture book, you can engage your child to make connections between the illustrations and words. These skills are critical in early childhood development.

Prepares Them for School

Reading with your child improves their concentration and ability to understand new concepts. Listening comprehension skills will help them understand what they learn in school, so ask your child questions as you read. This simple ritual can also instill a love for reading, encouraging your child to enjoy books on their own once they learn to read.

Brings You Closer

The bond between a parent and child is formed early in youth, and reading time can be part of this process. Reading before bedtime, for example, creates a nurturing space for you and your child to be together and strengthen your connection. Once they go away to school, reading time can continue to bring you together as an opportunity to learn and experience something new together.

Improves Imagination 

Play and reading have a key role in early childhood development, specifically in boosting creativity and imagination. As your child listens to their favorite stories, they will be immersed in fantastic worlds with complex characters. This exposure can encourage them to use their imagination during play, at day care, and eventually at school.

Your young child needs a day care center that supports their early childhood development in a nurturing and positive way. The team at Christian Chapel Day Care in Onalaska, WI, have the knowledge and experience to cater to every child’s individual needs. The teachers create a safe environment for growth and learning, preparing your child for school. For more information about their classrooms, you can visit their website or call (608) 783-5722.