In the realm of child development, reading holds a crucial position. While many parents instinctively read to their little ones long before they can decode words themselves, a pediatrician underscores the necessity of initiating this practice as early as possible. Dr. Emily Thompson, featured in a segment of Oprah’s OWN network series “The Hero Effect,” emphasizes that early exposure to reading can significantly shape a child’s future.
Dr. Thompson notes, “If children aren’t prepared by the time they reach kindergarten, they will struggle to meet grade-level expectations by the third grade. This can lead to a cascade of challenges, including truancy and increased dropout rates later on.” Consequently, she advocates for parents to begin reading to their children almost immediately after birth.
“I envision every pediatric check-up including a book to inspire parents to engage in reading with their children from the start,” Dr. Thompson shares. The act of reading is not just a cherished bonding experience; it plays a pivotal role in cognitive development. “Ninety percent of brain growth occurs before a child turns five,” she explains. “If we postpone reading until they enter school, we miss a critical window.”
As a parent myself, I wholeheartedly enjoy reading with my children, and my partner and I have made it a priority since their infancy. However, there are certainly nights—especially after a long day—when the temptation to skip the bedtime story is strong. I now realize that if my son stumbles in his education, it could be because I chose to forgo “The Sorcerer’s Stone” in favor of unwinding with a drink.
While the link between literacy and school dropout rates is evident, I understand that reading to one’s child isn’t a panacea. It undoubtedly fosters a love for books and lays the groundwork for future learning. Yet, many parents—particularly those juggling multiple jobs or single parenthood—might struggle to maintain a nightly reading routine. Fear shouldn’t be a driving force in parenting; rather, it should be about encouragement and support. However, perhaps a bit of concern can motivate us to prioritize these moments. Maybe for our next story, I’ll introduce my child to a character like Pennywise…
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In summary, starting to read to children from an early age is crucial for their development and educational success. The impact of early reading can set the stage for lifelong learning and reduce the risk of future academic struggles.