Reading aloud stories before bedtime is very essential to your children. Aside from developing vocabulary and understanding unintentionally, reading with them can also build a great bond that allows them to develop a sense of intimacy and well-being for them.

There are many ways reading can influence a child such as:

• They will grow up to enjoy reading in their spare time.
• They will not see assigned readings from school as such a big hassle.

Here are some ways you can encourage your child to read more:

• Encourage Literary Ventures

As all teachers say, reading is fun. The positive impact of reading on your child goes beyond books. Dr. Reisboard says that when you make reading activities with your kids fun and encouraging, it will help them to make school assignments fun as well.

For the younger ages, having a song for rhyming words will help them recognize sounds and build awareness of letters and words. According to Mansberger, you can help them engage in word and letter recognition during their daily lives, while going on with your day, point out an object and let them recognize the initial letter of the word. When going out for groceries, encourage your child to choose the foods, pay attention to the letters on the packaging, and ask them questions about the environment. Listening to music and singing songs with your child can also help activate their language skills.

• Frequent Reading

Reading can assist with focus, memory, empathy, and communication skills. It has the ability to alleviate anxiety and boost mental health. According to Mansberger, reading will become a habit if you encourage routine, consistency, and repetition. Having a reading schedule is a good thing, and you should always encourage your child to look at books on their own.

Dr. Degener said that even if children have little or no interest at first, they should at least develop the habit of reading. They are more likely to undertake it on their own once reading has become a consistent part of their days.

• Read Aloud Routine

Children’s imaginations are stimulated and their awareness of the world is expanded when books are read aloud to them. It aids in the development of language and listening abilities, as well as preparing students to comprehend written material.

The best approach to encourage a love of reading is to simply read with your child. An attempt to make reading a social event rather than a solitary activity is a great way to promote relationships as well as knowledge and interest. Also, parents must ensure that they do not use the reading time to teach literacy skills if the purpose is to develop a love of reading. Rather, concentrate on the pleasure of reading and the excitement of listening to stories.

Simply by listening to a story, your child can develop a passion for reading.