Did you know that simply reading to your kids can make a tremendous difference in their lives? Research shows that children whose parents read to them become smarter, better with words, and even better at learning new things. Albert Einstein once said, “If you want your children to be intelligent, read them fairy tales. If you want them to be more intelligent, read them more fairy tales.” He understood that stories don’t just teach kids about the world—they help them imagine what’s possible.
Kids who read regularly are better at solving problems and handling their emotions. One famous study found that by age three, children in families who read to them had heard 30 million more words than those who hadn’t. That’s a wonderful head start!
Reading to your children is one of the best gifts you can give them. It’s a special time that pays off for years to come. Sharing great books helps set your kids up for success, and those moments together become happy memories you’ll both treasure. Plus, reading teaches kids how to listen—an important skill that’s becoming rare in our busy world. Good readers are good listeners, and good writers know how to reward readers who pay attention. When you read with your kids and talk about the stories, you’re helping them learn to focus, think deeply, and remember what they’ve learned.
Books also help build character. When you and your children discuss the choices that characters make in stories, you’re teaching them how to make good decisions in their own lives. Create dialogue with your children during reading time, let the conversation sprawl into everyday exchanges, and watch the lessons take root in them. Don’t underestimate the power of questions to probe what your children are learning in great books: “How has Bilbo changed from the beginning to the end of The Hobbit? Why do you think that is so?” “Why is it important that Aslan in The Silver Chair asks Jill to remember four signs about the road ahead? What happens when she forgets to remember?” This manner of thoughtful engagement with your children during reading shows them that you love them and enjoy spending time with them. Many lifelong readers say their favorite childhood memories are of their parents reading to them. So, think about the future—imagine your kids growing up with these happy memories and the skills that will help them succeed, no matter what path they choose in life.
Be creative with how you read together. Little kids might like to help turn the pages or follow along as you point to the words. Some kids love making sound effects or taking turns reading. Older kids might enjoy answering your questions—or even asking you some tough ones. The more often you read together and the earlier you start, the more your family will benefit. And unlike old photos that fade, these memories just get better with time.
So grab a book, gather around, and start reading. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes.
Quick Takeaways:
- Reading to your children boosts their intelligence and language skills.
- Reading to your children develops character and trains their emotions.
- Shared family reading time creates lasting memories.
