From Toy Tips
Magazine
Research has shown that reading aloud to a child is the single most important factor in raising a child who loves to read. When reading aloud you are introducing sounds, words, ideas and are stimulating curiosity and thought. It is an education that will be a lifelong advantage.
Because children listen at a much higher level than they can read, many books provide good listening opportunities for children who could not possibly read the books themselves. They will understand and enjoy the story and extend their vocabulary as well. Listening also encourages children to concentrate, lengthening their attention span. The more often a child hears stories read aloud, the longer they will sit still and listen.
Scientific evidence, like that of Dr. Harry Chugani at Wayne State University, shows how reading to children stimulates their brain development. He is able to watch regions of a baby's brain become active as it listens. The pathways in the developing brain are enhanced, expanding its capacity to think and learn. Kids who are read to are smarter and better prepared for academic success.
Perhaps the most valuable byproduct of reading to a child is the time spent together, truly a gift of oneself. Sharing the intimacy of reading and capturing a child's natural curiosity is an antidote to the hurried world. It has been calculated that the average parent spends 12 1/2 minutes a day with their child and that the average kid sits passively in front of the television between four to five hours daily.
If there isn't a child at hand, find one and read to him or her. You'll change a life.
Article by Dr. Lillian Carson, D.S.W., L.C.S.W. Board Certified
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