Using The Power Of Books As Part Of Your Child’s Early Learning Experience

January 3, 2009 by  
Filed under Early Learning, Featured

It is easy to under estimate the power of the written word. During our formative years, we all had certain books that made a big impression and that we will remember for the rest of our lives. Even from early childhood, there were stories that never failed to delight and although we didn’t realise at the time, reading was helping us have a better command of the language.

We remember some of those books in adulthood and they help keep the glimmer of childhood in us that will remain until we grow old. During the early learning phase, using books as an aid will greatly enhance the experience.

There is something magical about children’s books, you have the books for very early years with pop ups and only a word or two on each page with big exciting pictures. Then progressing to toddler age with slightly more words on the page, again with beautiful imagery. The pictures are instrumental in helping the child with their creative imagination and eventually pictures are no longer necessary.

The earlier books play a part in your child’s life, the better. Helping them discover a love of books is a valuable gift and will help in their vocabulary skills, not to mention endless hours of pleasure.

You can gradually wean your child on to books starting pretty much from day one, in fact, you can even read to the child during the later stages of pregnancy. Both mom and dad can share this responsibly.

It has been discovered that the unborn child can hear voices and relate the voices after birth. Reading to your child will help them recognise your voice after birth and give a sense of comfort. There are probably even more benefits that have not been fully researched yet in reading to your child before birth.

To help your child get the maximum benefit from books, sit with them so they can look at the pictures while you read. Even once the child has begun learning to read, it can help to read and they will follow the words. Then the child can have a go.

You can think of ways in which the child can benefit, there are many methods that are all effective. Eventually, they will be reading on their own, only needing help with the odd word. You will be amazed at the rate in which they learn.

Children often copy their parents and the activity in question can become part of their enjoyable activities. You have the power to instil a love of reading and books into your child which can only do good. Encouraging them to read and reading aloud to them will help them take an interest.

There are books available with audio CD’s to help your child follow the story and add an extra facet in the learning to read process. Children usually love new things, this can help to prevent the child from becoming bored and giving up.

Books are something that has stood the test of time. Sure, there will be exciting new technology to capture the imagination but nothing can supersede our own imagination and the power of the mind. Helping your child to read and enjoy books will give them a huge advantage with vocabulary and is something that they can always enjoy.