We all know that it’s good to read to our babies. But what exactly are they learning? Here are just some of the things your baby can learn as you read together:
- Books contain wonderful stories and songs that I can hear over and over again.
- Reading time is a time when I am held and loved.
- You tell me the names of my body parts, the sounds different animals make, and that animals go to sleep too.
- Every time we read, I hear how words are used. I listen to rich language and learn new words.
- The letters, words and pictures you point to all have meaning.
- I can explore how books are the same and how they are different by touching and tasting them.
- There is always something hiding behind the flap. My favorite pictures are always in the same place in a book.
- Listening is part of communication, and language includes listening and understanding.
- Things come in different colors, sizes and shapes.
- It is fun to play with language, and to explore rhythm, rhyme and humor.
- When I do something, another thing happens. If I point at a picture, my mom or dad will tell me its name. If I drop the book, we might stop reading.
- I love books, and one day I will love to read on my own.
From June 2013 Baby Talk: Resources to Support the People Who Work with Infants and Toddlers