What Does Reading at Home Actually Do?
Let’s look at the key ways reading supports your child’s development:
1. Cognitive Development
This is how your child’s brain starts to make sense of new information. Reading helps them understand how the world works by introducing ideas, emotions, and experiences outside of their everyday life.
2. Vocabulary Building
Books introduce children to new words and not just big or complicated ones, but words they might not hear in daily conversation. The more words a child knows, the easier it is for them to express themselves and understand others.
3. Comprehension
Reading together teaches your child how to understand and recall information. They begin to make connections between stories and their own lives, laying the foundation for critical thinking and lifelong learning.
4. Background Knowledge
Books help children build knowledge about the world in cultures, emotions, nature, and so much more. This knowledge becomes a mental “toolbox” they can draw from when learning new things later.
The Hidden Bonus: Bonding Time
Beyond the academic benefits, reading together is also a beautiful way to connect with your child. Whether you’re reading their favorite book for the hundredth time or discovering a new story together, you’re creating lasting memories and strengthening your relationship. Reading is more than just words on a page. It is quality time, shared laughter, and learning together.
