Research has shown that the single most important thing that a parent can do to help their child acquire language, prepare their child for school, and instill a love of learning in their child, is to read to them (Russ et al., 2007). There are many benefits to spending 15 to 30 minutes of uninterrupted time reading with your child daily.

Reading with your child:

1. Builds your child's language skills, providing a foundation and reinforcing success in learning to read.

2. Encourages a life-long love of learning and reading.

3. Strengthens the bond between the child and the individual reading to them.

Reading with your child is great at any age. It doesn't matter if your child is a kindergartner or fourth grader, the benefits are the same. And if you feel more comfortable reading to them in your native language, go ahead and do that! Your child will certainly enjoy the time spent with you.

Reading Tips:

Make reading part of every day. Read a recipe while cooking or at bedtime. Make it work for you.

Have fun. Children who love books learn to read. Books can be part of special time with your child.

A few minutes is okay. Young children can only sit for a few minutes for a story, but as they grow, they will sit longer.

Take advantage of your local library. Sign your child up for a library card and expose her to thousands more (free!) children's books. The library has an incredible selection on online books and audio books.