Everyone knows that reading well is the key to success in school. Some say that it's the key to success in life. But you look at your adorable child and you wonder: when is the right time to start reading to him? Believe it or not--right now!
Don't run to the store and buy flash cards! Don't buy all the toddlers' books at the bookstore! All you have to do to start your child on the road to reading is to talk to him. Seriously! Talking to your child begins the process of toddler language development. Speaking is the beginning of reading.
Development in Speech Boosts Reading Skills
Talk to your babies and toddlers--when they're in the car seat, while you're feeding them, when you're changing them, or when you're bathing them. Child development research tells us that literacy (learning to read) is directly related to the amount of verbal interaction between parents and their children. So, be verbal.
Tell your child about your day as you drive home. Explain what you're doing when you change her diapers. Identify body parts and why we need to take a bath while you pop bubbles.
Toddler Learning Activities Should Be Fun for Parent and Child
But make sure you remember to have fun! Don't make every conversation a lesson. Enjoy your child. Look at the word through her eyes and experience it like it's new. Sing songs, help her learn to talk, and don't forget to read to her. Send a message of love to your child: sit, cuddle, and read a book together. This will start her on the road to reading well.
And you might be surprised how much you enjoy the antics of a big red dog or a talking turtle.