Storytime can be so much fun for both children and caregivers. Whether it’s a fairy tale, mystery, or classic novel, reading to children can be beneficial in numerous ways. Not only does reading aloud to children foster bonding time, but it also aids in cognitive development, improves language skills, prepares children for academic success, increases concentration, and improves imagination.

Reading to children has been proven to increase cognitive development. Cognitive development is the ability to think and understand. It allows children to perceive the world around them by processing information. Reading can give children background knowledge about the world and help them make sense of their lives. 

Reading daily to young children has additionally been proven to improve language skills. Reading stimulates the section of the brain that allows children to understand the meaning of language. Communication is arguably one of the most important skills we know, and reading is a great way to improve it. 

On top of these benefits, reading to your child can forge a strong bond. Storytime provides an opportunity for caregivers to set up a regular, shared event that their child can look forward to. Children learn to trust that their parents will be there with them during this time. Reading one-on-one with a child can be intimate and help your child feel close to you. 

The benefits of reading aloud to children go far beyond these reasons. Learning to love reading can not only help children’s development but can be the key to successful lifelong learning.

Read the full article here.

Emma Dineen

Research Assistant, UConn KIDS

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