Why You Should Start Reading to Your Kids More

Reading to your kids might be one of your favorite activities, but now there’s a reason to indulge in “just one more” before bedtime.

The impact of reading shows in both your Minis behavior and academic performance and according to a new study, it also shows in their brain activity. Researchers looked at the brain activity of children ages 3 to 5 as they were listening to a pre-recorded story and found that a number of areas in the left part of the brain became active. The areas affected are those that involve understanding word meaning, concepts and also, memory.

The study found that the development of these areas of the brain starts at a very early age and was reported higher among children whose parents stated they read together often and have access to a variety of books.

“The more you read to your child, the more you help the neurons in this region to grow and connect in a way that will benefit the child in the future,” said Tzipi Horowitz-Kraus, one of the authors of the study.

So exactly how early should you start story time with your little one? The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents start reading aloud to their kids from the time they are born!

Not only are you encouraging brain activity, but children who are exposed to books at a young age go on to have better vocabulary, attention spans, concentration, higher literacy and are even more prepared to go into kindergarten.  It’s a win-win!

Expand your children’s book collection and shop our favorite picks here.

Do you love reading with your Minis? Share with us below!

Opening Image: Lauren Kallen for Mini Magazine