Why Reading is Beneficial for Infants
Reading to your infant, especially during those precious first six months, is an incredibly rewarding experience for both mom and baby. Research suggests that early exposure to language plays a significant role in a child’s development. During this period, your little one is forming connections and establishing their understanding of sounds and rhythms, which can enhance their communication skills later on.
Creating a Warm Bonding Experience
When you read to your baby, it’s not just about the words; it’s the act of sharing that matters most. Holding your child close while engaging in a story creates a nurturing environment that fosters emotional security. The gentle sound of your voice can be soothing and comforting for them, increasing their sense of connection and trust. Plus, it’s a beautiful way to spend quality time together during those early months.
Stimulating Their Senses
At less than six months old, infants are notably curious. They enjoy looking at colorful pictures and respond well to different tones in your voice. Choosing books with vibrant illustrations or soft textures can stimulate their visual and tactile senses, making storytime an interactive and enjoyable experience. This sensory engagement can even help pave the way for a lifelong love of reading.
So, next time you cuddle up with your little one, grab a book and start reading! The benefits are profound, and the memories will last a lifetime. Here were some of our favorite book choices during those precious first six months.
1. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (illustrated edition)
Although you’ve probably been researching all the best books for your little one’s growth and development, I encourage you to pick a longer illustrated book that you’ll enjoy reading too. Over the first few months of my daughter’s life, I loved reading this to her while she did tummy time. I’d show her all the full page illustrations, and we’d “chat” about the foreshadowing elements. As she got older she’d play with the bookmark ribbon while I read, and she eventually started scooting/crawling towards the book as I read it. I highly recommend the illustrated versions of the Harry Potter series or any illustrated, longer picture books.
2. The Runaway Bunny (board book)
This book is just a classic children’s story first published in 1942. There’s full page illustrations that captivated by little one’s interest every time tummy time. The messaging is also pretty perfect: a mother’s love is unconditional.
3. The ABC’s of Kindness (board book)
I had never heard of this book before I received it at my baby shower, but we’ve fallen in love with it. As it reviews the letters of the alphabet, it strives to provide some social-emotional learning for your little one.
4. Duck & Goose: Colors (board book)
Although this book is an off-shoot of the original “Duck & Goose” story, it’s easily been my little one’s favorite book. This book simply shows our main characters, Duck and Goose, relating different colors to themselves and the world around them. Our copy has received a lot of love from our little girl, and it has the little teeth marks on the edges to prove it (which is why most books recommended for this age are board books).