At a time when it seems like every child is planted in front of a device, it’s crucial for parents to remember the importance of exposing their children to the wonder of books starting at a very young age. Community libraries are a great place to foster a love of reading, and many offer organized book clubs and programs that serve even the youngest of readers.
Infants
Most book stores offer a section completely devoted to infants. Books contained in this area offer sensory experiences for infants. There are tabs to grasp, pages to crinkle and even books that make noises. It is never too early to begin reading a short bedtime story to an infant. It helps them to learn a bedtime routine and provides an important bonding time with a parent or caregiver.
Tip: Bath time is a great time to introduce books. You can purchase waterproof books that help to distract an infant while you bathe them. Some books can even turn different colors when exposed to water!
Toddlers
At this age, children can’t get enough of books! Board books that offer the opportunity to lift flaps, make noises and feel textures are especially popular. Even if your child isn’t able to quite grasp the book, it’s still important to put a variety of books in front of them many times during the day. Rotate the offerings and even try to keep different ones in your car or diaper bag so they can be distracted or entertained when needed.
Tip: At this age toddlers start to become more aware of the world around them. Purchasing holiday themed books are a great way to not only stimulate their curiosity, but also gain a better awareness of special times during the year. It’s even better to start a “holiday” book shelf in your home and bring out the favorites each year.
School Age
The great thing about this age is the variety of books available for young readers. There are both fiction and non-fiction books on pretty much every subject. This is an age where curiosity rises to the top, so make it a point to have books available in your home on topics that are of interest to your child.
Tip: if you have a child who doesn’t like to read, install a mandatory half hour reading time. Make it clear that you can read to them or they can read to you, but that you expect them to read. Don’t be strict about what can be read (even a comic book or sports magazine will do) It’s more about setting aside the time and getting them into the routine of reading.
The bottom line…to create a lifelong reader, start your child early. Contact us at one of our convenient Long Island locations if you would like to learn more about the various child care programs we offer, all of which include many opportunities to read!
