Below are three simple steps to inspire and kindle a love of reading during the early years:
Read to your child as early and as often as possible
Though babies may seem too young to understand what is being read to them, reading at the infant stage encourages language skills, bonding, emotional learning, and even school readiness [source]. The more words a baby hears over time, the more they are immersed in sound and rhythm patterns—in turn making them better communicators. Start their reading journey with chunky board or soft fabric books with flaps, sounds, and textures. Before you know it, your baby will start recognizing familiar stories and asking for you to read their favorite books again and again!
Whether it’s reading a short book or two before sleep or even cracking one open during meal time, it is also important to make reading a part of your family’s everyday routine. When your child is old enough, make lists of books you’ve read together to build confidence in what they have already accomplished and to push them to make the list even longer by reading more.
Model good reading habits
Whether it is helping with chores or pretending to drive in their Little Tikes car, young children like to imitate what their parents and caregivers do. While it may be tempting to scroll on your phone while your child has their independent play time, demonstrate good reading habits by picking up one of your books instead. Showing your child that you also love reading can have a lasting impact.
Did you know the Cuyahoga County Public Library has no age requirement to become a library cardholder? As soon as you are able, start taking your child to the library to borrow books for the entire family. Most libraries also offer group story times for children of all ages, including babies. Click here to start the library card application process.
Sign up for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
An age-appropriate book delivered to your home each month? Yes, please! Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a free literacy program available to all young children in Ohio from birth to age 5. Receiving a new book in the mail just for them can create an excitement for books and the stories they hold. By the time they start kindergarten, your child could have a personal library of up to 60 books!
If you live in Cuyahoga County, visit literacycooperative.org/imagination-library to sign up your child for the program today!
Books and the stories inside them are magical, and it’s never too early or too late to introduce the wonders of reading. Pick up a book with your little one today.