Story time for kids and reading are an important part of early childhood education. Research has shown that reading to young children can improve their language skills, help them develop a love of reading, and provide a strong foundation for success in school and in life.
One study published in the journal Pediatrics found that reading to young children can improve their language skills and cognitive development. The study, which followed more than 1,000 children from birth to age 5, found that children who were read to regularly had larger vocabularies and better language skills than children who were not read to regularly.
Another important conclusion from the same study was that the family environment and reading habits play a crucial role in shaping a child’s literacy abilities: “Family context and daily reading routines are important for a child’s early literacy development”. In other words, parents play a crucial role in shaping the reading habit in children and the routine of reading a story daily is a cornerstone for development of a child who loves reading.
Another study, published in the Journal Early Childhood Research Quarterly, found that reading to young children can help them develop a love of reading. The study found that children who were read to regularly were more likely to enjoy reading and to choose to read on their own. This love of reading can lead to a lifetime of enjoyment and learning, as well as improved academic and professional success.
In addition to improving language skills and fostering a love of reading, regular story time and reading can also provide a strong foundation for success in school. A study published in the journal Educational Psychology found that children who were read to regularly had better pre-reading skills and performed better on reading tests than children who were not read to regularly.
There are many ways that parents and caregivers can incorporate story time and reading into their child’s early education. Reading to children from a young age, even before they can understand the words, can help them become familiar with books and the sounds of language. As children get older, parents and caregivers can encourage them to read on their own by providing them with a wide range of age-appropriate books and setting aside time for daily reading.
5 Tips to help with creating the habit of reading
- Start early: Research has shown that the earlier a child is exposed to reading and storytelling, the more likely they are to develop a love for reading.
- Make it a daily routine: Consistency is key when it comes to building a habit. Establishing a daily reading or story time routine can help children develop a love for reading.
- Encourage discussion: Research has shown that discussing books with children can improve their reading comprehension and critical thinking skills.
- Make it fun: Children are more likely to enjoy reading if it is presented as a fun and engaging activity.
- Lead by example: Children learn by example, so it is important for parents to model a love for reading.
Making sure that kids have a consistent supply of books is also important in creating a habit of reading and story time. You can go to a bookstore or a library. But what seems the most convenient option for busy parents is a children’s book club. Or a monthly children’s book subscription box like Little Fun Club. We curate books based on the age, reading level, or preferences of the child in boxes of 2 to 3 books. Each curated box is delivered to your doorstep each month! Now, how’s that for convenience!
