The Value of Reading to Your Child

Television has become a big influence on our children.  There are lots of good things that can be learned from some children programs.  These programs are easy and convenient for the parents.  T.V. has been called, “the modern babysitter.”  Many parents will let their children watch hours of television per day.  Sadly because of this influence, reading a book has become something that is only done at school.  Lots of children only read because they have to do it for school.  Most parents will read to their children when they are babies but when the children start reading on their own the parents stop reading with them. There is so much that can be gained by reading with your children and cutting back on t.v. time.  Let’s take a look at a few of the benefits of reading together.

Parents and children will spend valuable bonding time while reading a book.  Books, unlike T.V., can be paused to discuss what is happening.  Parents can take time to teach their children about life situations while reading.  Children will learn to use their imagination while picturing in their minds the story as it is read to them.  The development of the use of a child’s imagination will carry over into their outside play and also into their adult life.  Think about what the world would be like with nobody making new inventions.  Where do new products come from?  Yes, someone’s imagination!  Reading together will influence your child to love to read.  A person who loves to read will be a person who will continue to grow and learn.  

Finding a happy balance between television time and reading time is a personal and family decision.  It is important for children to learn from some of the great television programs that are available to them today but it is just as important for them to learn to read and enjoy it.  Take the time and do it for the children.