READING / BOOKS
Reading plays an important part in our lives. Developing a love for reading should be given the importance that it deserves. Reading requires you to think, feel and imagine, therefore the experience of reading is more than just recognising and pronouncing words correctly.
It is never too soon to introduce little ones to the wonderful world of books and reading. Use books and stories to develop your little ones imagination, improve his vocabulary and help develop his ability to communicate. If a child is exposed to books and reading at an early age, he/she will want to learn to read.
It is important to note that reading is one of the most important learning tools that a child will acquire. Reading is the basis of learning. The amount of time and effort that can be spent with books and reading , is one of the best investments that parents can make for their child.
In the early childhood phase, parents and teachers are in the best position to ensure that reading becomes an integral part of the child’s day or routine.
In the very early years of a child’s life, when you read to them, you are providing them with an understanding of the world around them and develop their general knowledge. With this acquired background knowledge they are then able to make sense of what they see, hear and read which assists in their cognitive development.
Reading also helps children to develop empathy as they experience the lives of other characters and identify with how they are feeling. They are then able to apply this understanding in the real world to empathise with other people. It also assists them in gaining a better understanding of their own emotions.
A book also has the ability to transport the child to different places, cultures etc. In this way a child is able to learn about different people, cultures, places ,events that he or she might not otherwise learn.
Some other benefits of reading for children include..enriching their vocabulary, using their imagination, improved concentration levels.
Parents have the perfect opportunity to help their little ones develop this love of reading. As parents, you are your child’s first teachers and this presents a wonderful opportunity to start instilling that love of reading that can last a lifetime.