Reading to babies may seem silly because they have no idea what we are saying and can not comprehend the story being told. That five extra minutes of storytime could easily be used to catch up on the daily phone scroll. However, research has shown the benefit of reading to babies has a far higher positive outcome than if you forgo the dreaded and monotonous storytime.
I have compiled a list of reasons why reading to babies is beneficial, to motivate you to start or continue your tales. This list comes from my personal I-can-not-fall-asleep research, my own experience, and my findings from friends and family.
I’ve also included tips on how to start and how to keep going!
Reading to babies allows them to hear your voice
The very early reading to babies is about establishing the sound of your voice. You can even read to babies in utero. Babies can hear your voice up to 10 weeks before they are born. When they enter into this world everything sounds different, but your voice will be a constant. Taking time to read to them helps comfort them and bridge the unknown.
A book can easily establish a bedtime routine
I’ll be honest, reading to my baby started as a bedtime routine; nothing more. I needed an activity to establish winding down and a book in my rocking chair was it! Over time it began to work. Now I see the other benefits, but solely establishing a bedtime was reason enough for me to grab a book every night.
Storytime becomes quality time
If you begin this trend now, imagine where it will take the relationship with your baby. You will always have this blocked-out time (for me it is bedtime) for you and your child. It may become more than just a storytime. This may be the moment your child feels comfortable to confide in you or ask for help.
Introducing books early gives an opportunity for a love of learning
Starting early sets a fond foundation for books and learning. Naturally, storytime in the arms of a parent will be comforting and reading may become relatable in this way. The possibility of finding a book that sparks a long-time interest is high if you start reading to babies early. With this in mind, choose an array of topics to read to your little one.
Reading gives you the confidence to talk out loud to your baby
For some people, it is very natural to talk to a baby, but for others not so much. It’s awkward talking to a baby that doesn’t talk back. For inspiration, use a book to get you talking. As a result, they have a chance to hear your voice and begin to build a vocabulary. This brings us to our next point.
Reading to babies helps to build vocabulary
Using books in your daily life may provide your baby with words you may not usually say. Research shows that the more you read to your child the bigger their vocabulary will be; sooner than children that have not been read to. In effect, it allows babies to interpret language easier. Giving your child this opportunity provides them the ability to focus on other achievements.
Honestly, the list of benefits goes on. Again, the task may seem daunting and pointless. With a full day of work, or taking care of the baby all day, the main thing that is craved is alone time of nothingness. The last thing on your mind is reading to someone who seems to not care. And true, if you don’t read to your baby they will still make it to the first grade just fine. However, If any of these sparks interest, pick up a book today and read to your baby.
Quick easy tips to begin:
- Read anything you want! Just the sounds of your voice and hearing different words benefit. You can even read your favorite blog out loud.
- Don’t feel the need to finish an entire book. Do what you can. Their interest will grow.
- Point to pictures or describe what you see. Adding visuals helps with connecting the meaning of words.
- Be a little dramatic. Using expressions gives them a better understanding of connotations and emotions.
- Find books age-appropriate that your baby can developmentally enjoy. Check out my list 5 Best Books for Babies Approved by an 8-Month-Old for ideas.
- Lastly, Don’t stress. Understand the good that transpires and find enjoyment in this time!
Leave a comment if this helped! Or share other benefits you may know and tips for other readers to get started.
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