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<\/p>\nReading is vital to a child\u2019s ability to learn and be successful in school. And the early literacy skills needed to be a good reader \u2013 like language and vocabulary \u2013 start developing from birth. But it doesn\u2019t happen automatically. A child\u2019s brain is not pre-wired for reading.<\/p>\n
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When babies and toddlers hear words and language from caring adults, their brains develop the important connections needed to learn how to read. Studies show that children whose parents and caregivers regularly talk and read with them develop larger vocabularies, become better readers and do better in school.\u00a0That’s because the first few years of a child’s life are when the brain grows and develops the most, and a child’s experiences in these early years affect how their brain develops.<\/p>\n
Language and early literacy developments starts from the very beginning. Babies are listening in utero, and once they’re born, they’re communicating through eye contact, facial expressions, crying, smiles and touch. When adults respond with words, conversation and attention, it helps build the child’s brain in ways that promote healthy development and learning.<\/p>\n