5 Reasons Why Reading is Critical for Kids

We all want to raise curious, intelligent, creative children, which is why we spend so much time choosing the best schools and the most proficient teachers. But we also have the power to boost learning potential by making sure that books are an integral part of our children’s lives.
Accepted wisdom tells us that reading is a good habit for our kids to develop—but are you familiar with the specific advantages your child can receive by reading?

Here are a handful of benefits:

Academic Excellence

One of the primary benefits of reading is a higher aptitude for learning in general. Countless studies have shown that students who are exposed to read consistently are more likely to do well in all facets of formal education. After all, if students struggle to put together words and sentences, how can they be expected to grasp the math, science, and social concepts they’ll be presented with during their academic careers?

Language Development

Throughout the early years, children are constantly learning new skills in grammar, vocabulary, and phrasing. Whether reading along or with a parent/teacher, children develop a feel for the way in which words and phrases are put together into sentences and paragraphs. Moreover, kids constantly come across unfamiliar words and can use the context of surrounding words on the page to discover meaning and build expand vocabulary.

Healthier Communication

When children spend time reading books, they’re more likely to express themselves and relate to others in a healthy way. By witnessing the interactions between characters in books, kids learn how to resolve conflict by using effective actions and words to convey frustration, happiness, stress, excitement, and other emotions.

New World Exposure

A journey to the middle of the Earth. An intimate portrait of teenage angst. A grand voyage across the ocean. Children are centers of imagination, and they thrive on stories of fantasy and wonder. Through books, kids can learn about far-away people and places…and ultimately more about themselves. Through story, children can safely attempt new experiences and explore new ideas without negative consequence in their real lives. They meet characters, solve problems, predict patterns and empathize with the needs of others.

Enhanced Relationship with You

As kids grows older, they’ll be on the move—playing, running, and constantly exploring new environments. In addition to the ball games and recitals, children also find joy by snuggling up with you and an engaging book. Be sure to integrate one-on-one reading time as part of your routine. Make it fun and rewarding. Search for stories of mystery and adventure, and discover that reading is an amazing activity that will bring the two of you closer together.