Reading to Your Grandchildren: Who Benefits More?
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Any of us who grew up watching TV in the ‘60s, ‘70, and ‘80s knows that “Reading is Fundamental.” We know that a child’s social and intellectual development is fueled by reading. And this includes being read to from an early age.
As a grandparent, you are an influencer, not necessarily on social media, however, you have a lot of influence with your grandchildren! If they see you reading, they will want to read too. But why stop there? If you really want to impact a child’s development, read TO them every chance you get.
When you spend time with a child it can be a positive experience for you and them. However, if you want to ‘supercharge’ your time with them, read aloud with them. Reading to a child lets them see that reading is important and enjoyable. This positive interaction builds bonds and increases the likelihood of a child wanting to pick up a book and read for themselves.
Here are just some of the benefits of reading aloud to a child:
When you take the time to read out loud to children, they know that they have your undivided attention.
Reading to a child creates a positive shared experience that will build life-long, lasting bonds between you and the child.
When you pick a regular time to read to a child; before bed/nap time, right after dinner, after a walk to the park, etc., you create a calming and enjoyable experience for both of you.
Reading to and with a child prepares them to succeed in any subject, level, and grade. It allows the child to develop the listening, reading, and comprehension skill to help them succeed and excel academically.
Reading books and looking at illustrated pages stimulates a child’s already creative imagination. It encourages them to keep thinking beyond the boundaries of their surroundings.
As I started this post with the reference to the TV ads for RIF, I would like to end with not only is “Reading is Fundamental”, READING IS FUN! So start reading with your grandchild today! You both will be glad you did.
