Tips on How to Conceive a Baby Boy
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You probably already know that reading to your child is important, and you may have heard that the earlier you start the better. But how much does an infant really understand? What if your baby just wants to suck on the book rather than listen to you make funny animal sounds? Here you’ll discover the importance of reading to your baby, plus plenty of tips on how to choose books and when to read them.
Although your baby might seem too young and appears to be getting very little enjoyment from it, reading helps your baby’s development in lots of ways.
1. Reading inspires a lifelong love of literature
Reading to your baby early teaches your baby to value books, and nurtures a deep love of reading to last a lifetime. When babies associate storytime with you as a time of joy, fun, and closeness, a book lover is created.
2. Reading teaches your child about language and emotions
The roots of language are developing in a baby’s brain long before they can speak. The more words your baby hears, the more he’ll learn and the better he’ll be able to talk.
Your baby hears you use different emotions and expressive sounds when reading, and this supports their social and emotional development. It encourages other skills like pointing, touching, and copying sounds.
3. Reading strengthens your relationship
Although your baby might seem too young to understand what you’re saying, he enjoys this opportunity of togetherness, connection, cuddles, and likes the sound of your voice. Your baby will start to recognise the book-sharing routine and respond with excitement, smiles, or a feeling of calm particularly if it’s part of the bedtime ritual.
Sharing stories with your baby doesn’t mean you have to read every time. Instead, you can look at books together, and chat about what’s on the pages or simply point out different pictures. By watching you, your baby will be learning how to hold books the right way, and how to turn pages gently.
You might prefer to sometimes make up your own stories, or sing songs, or read books in another language. All of these experiences will enhance your baby’s development.
You can make reading a part of your daily routine whenever and wherever you like. Reading at bedtime is one of the best times as it gives you and your baby a chance to wind down and snuggle, while setting up a calming routine that will last throughout childhood.
However, reading doesn’t necessarily have to be restricted to sleep times. Pack books in the nappy bag and take them with you everywhere. They come in handy when you’re waiting to see your maternal and child health nurse, or stuck in the supermarket queue. In the park, on the train, in the pram…any time is a good time for a story!
