We have all grown up listening to everyone around us telling us how reading is one of the best habits to develop as a child. A seed of ‘reading’ sown during childhood will reap benefits till the last breath. Not only does it construct a solid foundation of the children’s aptitude for learning and seeking wisdom but it also nurtures their ability to function properly in an ever-evolving environment of the society. Books open doorways to a land which may not be tangible, introduce us to tales of those who are not with anymore, they assist in escalating knowledge.
To understand the plethora of benefits reading can instill in your child, continue reading.
1. Broadens Horizon
It is a popular saying that, “Whenever you read a good book, somewhere in the world a door opens to allow in more light”. It beautifully depicts how with each comprehension, the child absorbs an experience – be it academic, spiritual, trivial or holistic. Reading commences an ever-growing process of attaining destinations, many of which may exist in theory only. It introduces the child to characters, places, and events, apart from their personal experiences. Furthermore, through the wealth of these fictitious instances, your girl gets to learn about other cultures and beliefs, which might vastly vary from her own. This, in turn, will help her understand and build principles of her own will be instrumental in her journey of becoming a strong confident woman of tomorrow.
2. Builds a linguist
In many homes, it is a well-established ritual to read and enact stories to the young ones before they hit the bed. Not only is this practice a bonding routine but also, unconsciously builds the child’s vocabulary, imagination, expression, and understanding. A child with refined linguistic skills stands out in debating, story writing, storytelling or general public interaction – we have a winner here!
Furthermore, academically, reading will help your child improve her grammar, assist in developing sound elocution and lastly elaborate on her writing expression and style.
3. Reading books with children helps to develop empathy
Malorie Blackman once shed light on the relation between reading and developing empathy. She said, “Reading is an exercise in empathy; an exercise in walking in someone else’s shoes for a while”. This magnificent habit will lend a hand in teaching the young women how to be compassionate for the beings around them. Backed by research and studies, it is a proven theory that individuals who indulge in reading literature, in particular novels dealing with complex characters and plots have an evolved ‘Theory of mind’ and empathy. They are better at dwelling and understanding how people think. Also, their capacity to construe emotions and feelings of other people is vast.
4. Reading is a good exercise for the brain – helps boost concentration and memory
Don’t we all want our children to be bright, smart and intelligent? We won’t mind a Madam Curie or a Kalpana Chawla in our homes now, would we? How to raise your child to their level? It’s a simple trick; inculcate in them the habit of reading.
Reading is an excellent exercise for the brain – it helps boost concentration and memory. A published study in Pediatrics, the official journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, revealed that the children who were accustomed to a reading schedule from childhood evidently had higher activation levels in the brain. Moreover, the child will develop superlative habits such as concentration and sitting still for prolonged period of time, which will be truly fruitful as they will grow up.
5. Source of entertainment
Childhood is supposed to be filled with beautiful, happy experiences. Contrary to our wishes, the younger ones derive happiness from entertainment. The one thing we can control is what sort of entertainment they are being exposed to. In the words of Mary Wortley Montagu, “No entertainment is so cheap as reading, or any pleasure so lasting.”
Once mastered, reading is actually a fun activity. As the story unfolds, anticipation rises; children will find ofetn themselves smiling, crying and grinding teeth through the series of anecdotes.
It is not hidden that screen time has overhauled our schedules with all the negative effects! Practicing choosing a book, just flicking through the pages or reading together is a far better alternative.
6. Develops good self image
Over and above every benefit, one groundbreaking advantage of reading is that it empowers your child. Apart from the knowledge gained through experiences in the circle of life, reading instills a sense of confidence. It allows the individual to be graceful and wise in situations which might be emotionally demanding.