What’s more, sharing time together with a book provides special moments to bond and create cherished memories and teaches important skills, such as patience, empathy, and curiosity.
Plus, explore the best family read-alouds about feelings.
“Children who are read to more frequently have improved language and listening skills, develop stronger bonds with their loved ones, and gain a lifelong love of reading,” Martinez says.
Judy Newman, Chief Impact Officer at Scholastic, shares eight tips on how you can make the most of reading aloud to your baby and support their brain development.
A simple way to make reading a regular activity is to have a variety of books at home. In fact, the Scholastic Home Libraries Research Foundation found that access to home libraries is unequivocally linked to student achievement and lifelong success.
Start with colorful board books and touch-and-feel stories that allow your children to interact with the cover and the pages.
For instance, Scholastic Early Learners: My Busy Dinosaur Book is a great pick to encourage learning through play. You’ll also foster your baby’s hand eye coordination as they explore different textures and engage with fun touches found on every page.
Plus, you don't have to wait until your baby is born to enjoy the magic of reading aloud. Reading during your pregnancy has many benefits and gives expectant parents practice in reading aloud. Language patterns can be picked up in utero, Newman says. “After birth, they can recognize words first heard in the womb,” says Newman.
According to the Scholastic Kids & Family Reading Report, 89 percent of kids agree that their favorite books are the ones they have picked out themselves.
When storytime rolls around, let your baby choose! Keep books within their sight and reach and pay attention to what titles capture your baby's attention — you can go back to that book again and again.
“If books are within a baby's range of vision, such as around the nursery or in the living room, they’ll be more likely to notice them and express interest, giving you an opportunity to explore new characters and worlds together,” Newman says.
The magic of reading with very young children comes from the experience of being together — enjoying cozy moments, sharing stories, and showing them that books and reading are valuable parts of home life.
“Young children love hearing your voice, so it's fun to choose books you enjoy and can read with enthusiasm,” Newman says.
Reading time doesn’t have to feel like a lesson, just because a book is involved. Think of reading time as playtime, with the book as an inspiring toy your child is interacting with.
And remember, there’s no right way to share a book!
“When babies hold books, begin to turn the pages, point out images, even chew a book — that all counts as reading,” says Newman. “The fact that you’re sharing and enjoying the book experience together is what it’s all about.”
Try Hello, Beautiful You!, a heartwarming story that will help your baby learn how truly extraordinary and beautiful they are. If you’re looking for nursery rhymes, there’s also the classic Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? families and babies love.
Family schedules can be hectic. Whether it’s a few minutes before bedtime or a couple pages during breakfast, set aside a specific time each day for reading. There is no wrong time to enjoy a story!
Consider setting up a cozy book nook where you and your baby can snuggle up and read together. A few pillows and a comfy blanket is all you need to create a special space to return to each day.
Perfect for bedtime cuddles and cozy storytime all day long, Awake, Asleep is a must-have for your baby’s bookshelf.
Find opportunities to engage your baby in story time alongside a beloved activity or routine chore. For instance, incorporate reading aloud during bath time and spontaneous storytelling throughout moments of your day, from tummy time, going on walks, or preparing a meal.
You can also capture your child’s attention through a hands-on activity, like reading while making dinner.
“Maybe you read a story where the character is eating something delicious — try to make the meal at home to engage your child. Round up the ingredients together as you talk about each step needed to make the treat!” Newman adds.
Books are a great resource for discussing everyday experiences, like potty training, and building social and emotional connections with your child, such as understanding feelings of happiness or sadness.
“Books are excellent, versatile conversation starters and provide excellent prompts for interactions with very young children. Things that happen in your daily life are played out in rich stories allowing you and the child to engage over and relate to familiar topics,” says Newman.
When your child encounters a challenge, ask them how their favorite character might handle the situation. Ask questions like, “What would Clifford do?” helps foster critical thinking and helps your child relate stories to their own experiences.
Regular visits to your local library and bookstore can be a wonderful way to engage babies, toddlers, and children with reading outside the home. It also provides a chance for you and your child to connect with other families in your community. Attend free read-aloud sessions hosted by library staff or explore local bookstores that offer similar events.
Utilize available resources, such as online guides, local librarians, friends, family, and playgroups, to find just-right books for your reader. Exchange ideas and books with peers — it's never too early to start a "book club," even a baby book club!
For 35 years, Scholastic has partnered with Reach Out and Read to curate and select high-quality, engaging, and inclusive titles for families and communities. Find more book recommendations in the 35 for 35 book collection, created in partnership with Reach out and Read.
Shop books to boost baby's brain development below! You can find all books and activities at The Scholastic Store.
