Benefits that Highlight the Importance of Reading with Young Children Part two of two

Continuing from the April issue. We all know that reading to our children is important. But did you know that toddlers and preschoolers who are read to every day have many advantages and benefits. Here are the remaining highlights to emphasize.
5. Reading together encourages a thirst for knowledge
Reading to your children leads to questions about the book and the information within. It gives you a chance to speak about what is happening and use this as a learning experience. It may also develop an interest in different cultures or languages. There is nothing better seeing a child who loves to learn.
6. A range of books teaches children about different topics
Providing your child with different types of books on different topics, or even in different languages for bilingual kids, gives them a wide range of information for them to learn. There are informative books on topics such as different animals, places or objects etc., and there are also different books to help teach children about important life skills such as sharing, being kind, and diversity. There are also some amazing personalized books which make great gifts!
7. Reading develops a child’s imagination and creativity
One of the great benefits of reading with children is watching their growing imagination. When we really engage in a book we imagine what the characters are doing. We imagine the setting as reality. Seeing the excitement on a child’s eyes when they know what is going to be on the next page, or having them guess what is going to happen is one of the most amazing things to experience.
8. Reading books with children helps to develop empathy
When a child can put himself into the story it helps them to develop empathy. They identify with characters, and they feel what they are feeling. Children begin to understand and relate to emotions.
9. Books are a form of entertainment
With so much technology these days, it is difficult not to get caught up in all the hype of it all. TV, Video games, smart phones and apps are popular among children. However, reading a good book that your child is interested in can be just as entertaining. With all of the negative effects of screen time, choosing a book that interests your child, and either reading it together, or letting them flick through pages alone, is definitely a better option. One of the main benefits that highlights the importance of reading with babies and toddlers, is that they are more likely to choose a book to read for pleasure over another activity when they are bored.
10. Reading together helps to create a bond
There’s nothing better than cuddling up to your little one and reading a book or a bedtime story together. Spending time with one another, reading, and talking, can bring parents closer to your children. For parents who work, or have a busy lifestyle, relaxing with your child and simply enjoying each other’s company while reading can be a great way for you both to wind down, relax, and bond.
Courtesy www.bilingualkidspot.com