Parents often look at me with surprise when I open up a Sesame Street book and start reading to the newborn in my lap. Isn't she too young for books? How can she even understand the content or see the pages? Well, her vision may still be developing, but looking at brightly colored characters and shapes certainly helps that along! And while she may not understand the story, she does tune into my vocal inflections and learn about rhythm and pace as we read. And guess what? Reading is also fun and helps you bond with your baby! And for all of those parents wanting the smartest baby on the block....good news. Reading at a young age helps neural connections to form and enhances your baby's vocabulary and language abilities by age 2. Want to boost your baby's brain development even more? Begin reading to him during pregnancy, when he is still a fetus. Yes, he hears. Yes, he memorizes. Yes, he will know the stories you read to him when he is born and it will amaze you to see how he shows recognition! If you have any doubts about the benefits of reading to prenates and newborns, here are the results a few months later....
Nathan and Trinity have moms who read to them during pregnancy and throughout infancy. Great job!
What kind of books should you choose? Go for ones that are short, have brightly colored pictures, and just a few words on each page. It's nice if the story has a rhythm or pattern to it, as it captures baby's attention.
Nathan, you are so cute! Love, Nonny Mary
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