Reading enables us to learn how to do and make things. We find out how things work. Through reading we learn about science and history and about the people who came before us. Reading helps to level the playing field for children of all income and social levels. Reading enables children to succeed in life.
As the saying goes, learn to read by 3rd grade, and then read to learn for life. Reading proficiency by the third grade is the most important predictor of high school graduation and career success. We all have a role to play to make sure that children learn to read by 3rd grade so they can succeed in life. Parents and caretakers need to instill a love of reading at home.
So much of our brain development occurs in the early years, and reading to young children on a regular basis stimulates ideal patterns of brain development at a critical time in brain development. Reading to infants and toddlers enhances their vocabulary and other important communication skills.
Pediatricians have become advocates of reading to infants and toddlers. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that pediatric providers promote early literacy development for children beginning in infancy and continuing at least until the age of kindergarten entry. Parents should be advised that reading aloud to young children can enhance parent-child relationships and prepare young minds to learn language and early literacy skills.
While moms are important, dads play a critical role in their children’s literacy development by exploring the world together through reading. Dads can share stories and engaging in meaningful conversations that build critical thinking skills. If you are not comfortable with that role Dad, click here to find out how you can help. Reading every day to pre-school children gives them a 12-month head start by the time they arrive in the classroom. So turn off the television, stop texting and chatting on Facebook and read to your children. As they get older share interesting books that you read as a child or find new ones to read together.
A recent study connects reading aloud to child through elementary school to a love of reading generally. If you are a grandparent, aunt or uncle, read to your grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Read to your neighbors kids. Talk with them about the story and the pictures in the book. Provide a child you know with the opportunity for a lifetime of learning.
The National Education Association’s Read Across America program focuses on motivating children and teens to read through events, partnerships, and reading resources. It begins on March 2, the birthday of Dr. Seuss. As the famous writer said “You’re never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read with a child.” Reading makes all things possible. So read to a child TODAY!
Join schools, libraries, and community organizations across the country by bringing together children, teens, and books and inspire some kids you know to pick up a book and become lifelong readers. Need ideas? Need to rediscover your local public library? Check out the following:
http://www.publiclibraries.com/
http://www.seussville.com/?home#/home/