A love of learning is one of the best gifts you can give your child. One of the best ways to bestow it upon them is through reading together. From infancy through elementary school, books are essential in early childhood learning. Here’s why. 

The Benefits of Reading for Early Childhood Learning 

Reading encourages children’s imagination and natural curiosity. Age-appropriate stories will help them to understand the world around them, including different people, places, and how life works. Additionally, they’ll learn new numbers, letters, vocabulary words, and communication skills. Fostering a love of learning early on will help them enjoy and succeed in school and beyond. 

Even if your baby or toddler doesn’t understand everything that’s going on in a story, reading with them will stimulate their brain and help them recognize important sounds integral to communication skills. They’ll also learn to associate reading and learning with positive feelings, particularly if they start out learning with someone like a parent, who they trust and love. Also, it’s a fantastic opportunity for bonding.

The Best Books to Read

There are hundreds of excellent children’s books to choose from, but here are three of the most popular among early childhood learning professionals and parents alike: 

• “Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown: “Goodnight Moon” is a quintessential bedtime story. Featuring vivid illustrations and a simple, sing-song-like rhyme and rhythm, the book tells the tale of a bunny’s bedtime, wherein he says goodnight to everyone and everything in his world before drifting off. The words are pleasant to the ear, and also help kids learn about words that sound alike. 
• “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein: “The Giving Tree” is a children’s literature classic that uses a simple, entertaining story with engaging illustrations to deliver profound messages. In addition to its dialogue and entertainment, it illustrates the value of friendship and selfless giving.
• “The Cat in the Hat” by Dr. Seuss: Dr. Seuss is one of the most famous names in children’s literature by a landslide. His masterwork, “The Cat in the Hat,” changed the face of American children’s literature from instructional primers to entertaining stories that encourage learning through fun. The story evokes a sense of adventure and whimsy with enticing, wacky illustrations. 

In addition to reading at home, enrolling your little one in an early childhood learning center can help foster healthy development and prepare them for success at school and beyond. If you’re in the Croton or Cortlandt Manor, NY, area, contact A Rising Star Children’s Center. For over 14 years, they’ve been one of the community’s most respected learning centers and children’s day cares. Call (914) 788-4582 to schedule a walk-through or visit the website to learn more about their programs.