Sitting close with your little ones from an early age and enjoying a book together is always a great way to spend time, but do you know reading to your children has a whole range of benefits that will give them a flying start in life?
Firstly, it's a great introduction to vocabulary. Seeing an adult sounding out the words and linking them to the shapes on the page begins to build up vocabulary that they will use for the rest of their life.
Then there are a variety of good effects of hearing stories which improve their minds and develop social awareness and skills. At a time when they are perhaps stuck indoors more than ever before, reading is the best way to motivate (激发) children's imagination. They can travel to the moon, meet the Gruffalo and pop into a chocolate factory all before they've even had lunch!
There's no better way to walk a mile in someone else's shoes than reading their stories and seeing things from another's point of view is a great way to build empathy (共鸣), tolerance and other qualities needed. There are some fantastic children's books which show characters acting as strong role models. These stories can encourage future leaders and thinkers, so every child can feel they can achieve their dreams, from the Little Leaders series to Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls (叛逆女孩).
Now is the perfect time to build up a library of excellent reads ready for children to enjoy now and in the future. They will create memories to last a lifetime. On top of the benefits for your little ones, it's fun, relaxing and a great chance to go back and reread the best books from your own childhood.
