Whether you are a psychologist, young parent or any member of the public, you likely agree that reading is essential for growth. This is particularly in young kids. Yes, reading (or even listening) brings great benefits at any age. But the effect peaks at a child’s earliest stages. Yet why is this so?
There are countless reasons as to why this is – but here are 3 core factors to start you off!
1. Reading Exercises the Brain
There are people who read for the sole purpose of improving vocabulary, critical thinking skills, concentration and many more brain skills. While kids are still at their early stages, reading is essential for gaining these skills early on. So, it can be built upon as they grow. It excercises their brain functions in terms of concentration and problem-solving. Plus, as well as verbal skills including pronounciation and proficient communication.
These are all elements perfect to headstart kids into school life into succeeding both inside and beyond the classroom. Not only would they perform well in their academics but also obtain social skills to befriend their peers. And they can also stretch farther as excellent reading skills are essential for extra curriculars. This could be like learning new languages, all around benefitting the child from a young age and further in life.
2. Encouraging Empathy and Discovery
Not only does reading impact kids’ academics, but it also encourages empathy and discovery. Especially since children books have elements of morals, these are great ways for a child to develop and grow. They would discover different characters, worlds and cultures through reading with a fresh mind yet to be conquered by social rules. Thus they would be better at being empathetic and making their own decisions before conforming to others. Though, this is not only for their own growth into adulthood. In their young social lives they then also learn to communicate with their peers without prejudice.
3. Increasing Satisfaction
Being kids, they likely would not have the above reasons in mind when being told (or even choosing) to read books. It is crucial that instead of being a chore, reading is seen as “fun”. Exploring different worlds and characters will make their imaginations grow wild with the curiousity of what happens next, always yearning for more. Reading then becomes a form of entertainment, beyond the unhealthy addictions of games through a tablet screen.
Kids do not have to read solo either – this is the perfect opportunity to create bonds with others too. This can be with family or even with friends. If children view reading and learning as a form of satisfaction early on, they would be encouraged to continue reading later into life.
However, children’s books are vastly different from your average book. Click here to discover the unique world of kids’ books.
