10 Reasons Why Reading to Your Kids is Parenting Gold

Picture this: You, a cozy blanket, your munchkins huddled around, and a book that transports you all to a world of imagination. Sure, bedtime stories are great, but did you know that there are solid benefits to reading to your little rascals that go beyond the books? Here are 10 advantages of sharing stories with your kiddos that will make you proud and give you street cred as a parent.

 

Bedtime: The Ultimate Jedi Mind Trick

Reading to your kids is the secret weapon against allll the notorious bedtime stall tactics. Who needs negotiation skills when you've got the power of a good story to whisk them away to dreamland faster than you can say "lightsaber"?

 

Reading to Impress Educators

Reading sets the foundation for a lifelong love of learning. Introducing children to the world of books early on fosters curiosity and a natural inclination towards education. Teachers can tell who’s been read to and who hasn’t. And yes, they’re judging you.

 

Future Verbal Sparring Skills

The exposure to diverse vocabulary and sentence structures in books plays a crucial role in enhancing a child's language skills. It increases their vocabulary and prepares them for those upcoming tween years when they turn that vocabulary against you. You will feel a sense of accomplishment at the role you played in your own verbal abuse when that abuse is grammatically correct. So proud.

 

Life Lessons Without a Ton of Effort

Who needs serious talks about sharing and caring when you can teach life lessons through the misadventures of wacky characters? It's like stealth parenting with an “easy” button – they'll be quoting story morals before you know it.

 

Better Brain Power

Engaging with stories stimulates cognitive development. Following plot lines, making predictions, and connecting events all contribute to the development of critical thinking skills. In other words, it makes them smarter. I repeat: IT MAKES THEM SMARTER!

 

Impromptu Talent Showcases

Move over stand-up specials; you're about to become the household comedian. Reading introduces you to the art of dramatic voices and unexpected plot twists that leave your little audience in stitches. Who knew a talking potato could be so hilarious?

 

Foster Future Independence

While everyone else’s kids are complaining about about being bored, your kids will have their noses buried in a book. Developing a habit of reading also encourages a healthier alternative to screen time. Raising bookworms now can mean a little peace and quiet later. You’re welcome.

 

Diversity On Your Bookshelf

Books often introduce children to different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. This exposure helps foster cultural awareness and an appreciation for diversity from a young age. So now, we have kids who develop empathy, compassion, and respect. Wait…isn’t that one of the goals?

 

Improving Concentration and Discipline

Regular reading sessions require a level of concentration and discipline. This practice helps children improve their attention spans and learn the value of focus. Concentration and focus are awesome, but really, you had me at discipline.

 

Bond Stronger Than Super Glue

Last but certainly not least, reading together creates a bond that's stronger than any glue. It's not just about the stories; it's about the shared laughter, the snuggles, and the memories that will stick around longer than gum on a hot sidewalk.

 

There are many more than just these ten, but the benefits of reading to your children extend far beyond the immediate joy of sharing stories. It is a foundational activity that contributes significantly to their development, setting the stage for a lifetime of learning and growth.

So, embrace the power of storytelling and unlock the endless possibilities it holds for your child's future. Out of all the things you do for your kids, (and, I know you do A LOT) this is such a simple, easy gift to give them that has large and far-reaching benefits. And, it doesn’t take much of your time and energy. Small investment, BIG payoff. Reading for the win.

If you’re looking for a fun book to read to your children, I wrote a pretty good one called “I Love You to the Moon and Back”, a whimsical story of unconditional love. It won an award and everything. You can find it HERE:)