At what age should I start reading to my baby?
It is never, ever too early to start reading to your baby. All these words, colours, illustrations, and, above all, the wonderful stories they will hear, will stay with them forever. Plus, reading time is the absolute perfect bonding time. Together, you can explore new worlds and go on fantastic adventures. Your little one will quickly learn to associate books with fun, and perhaps this association will stay with them for life.
We've all heard it: Some people believe that reading to babies is a waste of time. But that is not true! Reading encourages speech and language development, even at a very young age. There are also wonderful books for babies with various textures that are not only enjoyable to explore but also aid in the development of tactile and fine motor skills.
At a glance:
- Reading is good for a baby's language development and builds up their vocabulary.
- Reading introduces new concepts such as colours, shapes, the weather, different animals, etc. in a very enjoyable way.
- Reading helps your baby learn about the world.
- Reading is a great way to bond with your little one.
- Reading to your baby can boost their brain power and build their social and emotional skills.
- Reading helps babies to become familiar with the world around them.
Here are some tips for reading with a baby from birth onward:
- A comfy chair or sofa, your baby's favourite blanket, and a good book—that's all you need.
- Make it fun by changing your voice and making funny facial expressions while reading. Reading with a baby shouldn't be boring!
- Choose books that have bright, colourful illustrations and simple stories.
- Short, snappy texts are better for younger babies.
- Encourage your older baby or toddler to turn the pages and point to things they recognise.
- Read slowly, allowing time for your baby to absorb the illustrations and words.
- Soft bath books are easy for babies to hold while lying down or sitting in the bath.
- Ask questions (and answer them if your little one can't)!
- When your baby becomes more interactive, introduce nursery rhymes, finger plays, and sing-alongs.
- How is your baby reacting? If your baby doesn't seem interested or starts to yawn, it is probably time to stop.
- Create a daily reading routine to create special moments between you and your baby. It doesn't need to be long—just 5 minutes or 10 minutes is enough! Whether you choose to read to your baby in the evening, in the morning, or at lunch doesn't matter.
- Can't you find the right books? Get one of our baby book subscriptions. Each month, you and your baby will receive a brand-new book that is perfect for your little one's age and stage of development.
- Black-and-white books are great for newborn babies, as they are more stimulating to their developing eyesight.
- Go to a storytime session in your local bookshop or library. Perhaps your baby will make friends with some other baby bookworms?
As your little one gets older, you will be able to enjoy longer picture books and stories together. At that stage, it is important to ask your child what they would like to read. It is important that they feel included in the decision-making process. If your child really likes unicorns or dinosaurs, then you should look for books that feature those things.
Reading to your baby is an incredibly special time, and it will undoubtedly become one of your favourite activities. Enjoy every moment of it!
