Whats so special about reading aloud to children?
When we take the time to read a story aloud, we are telling kids that there is so much more to reading than sounding out words and answering questions at the end of a chapter. For very small children, reading aloud is just one more opportunity to be close to someone who loves them as they begin to explore the wonders of their new world. Through your words, babies have the opportunity to become familiar with other people and things they might see. Imitative toddlers begin to mimic your language patterns and young preschoolers are given the freedom to venture into new worlds filled with fantasy and adventure. Children who are read aloud to at an early age see first-hand that reading can be exciting and fun. A special bond develops as children equate books with feelings of warmth, security, love, and family unity. Children will remember these feelings long into their adulthood, and although the actual stories may be forgotton, reading has become an enjoyable, lifelong habit. Why Read Alou
