(Scholastic)
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“More than 80 percent of a child’s brain is formed during their first three years, and what they experience during this crucial time can irreversibly affect how their brain develops,” says Marty Martinez, CEO of Reach Out and Read, a nonprofit helping to educate families on the benefits of reading aloud from birth.
Reading together is a simple yet powerful way to nurture a child’s brain development and lays a foundation for lifelong learning and success. Research from Reach Out and Read indicates that children exposed to early reading programs are six months ahead in vocabulary, language, and communication skills by the time they start school.
What’s more, sharing time together with a book provides special moments to bond and create cherished memories and teaches important skills, such as patience, empathy, and curiosity.
“Children who are read to more frequently have improved language and listening skills, develop stronger bonds with their loved ones, and gain a lifelong love of reading,” Martinez says.
Judy Newman, Chief Impact Officer at Scholastic, shares eight tips on how you can make the most of reading aloud to your baby and support their brain development.
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For 35 years, Scholastic has partnered with Reach Out and Read to curate and select high-quality, engaging, and inclusive titles for families and communities. Find more book recommendations in the 35 for 35 book collection, created in partnership with Reach out and Read.
Read the full article at Scholastic here.
(Image credit: Scholastic)