When I was in the first grade, my school had a program called “Reading Buddies.” We would be paired up with fourth graders and spend around half an hour with them a week, reading some books we picked out from the library. Three years later, when we became fourth graders, we would be the older buddy and take on the role of mentorship for the new first graders. I didn’t know this at the time, but my exposure to reading from a young age would set the foundation for my academic career. I was lucky enough to have access to what my generation would call “classic literature,” like Geronimo Stilton, Magic Treehouse, and Diary of a Wimpy Kid. My classes used to set aside free reading time where students could lounge on beanbag chairs and enjoy their favorite books. In our increasingly digitized generation, it is essential that children continue to have resources for reading because of the role that it plays in their development.
Common knowledge tells us that reading from a young age sets children up for success, but exactly how big of a role does it play? According to a study on cognitive development for toddlers, having a caretaker read out loud to a young child can literally ‘turn on’ connections between brain cells, and strengthen existing ones. The neural foundation that is constructed during this time period will mostly last into adulthood (getcaughtreading.org). Research has confirmed that reading transforms the brains of young children for the better, and for good. There really is no wrong time to start. Even if it is too early for critical thinking, simply reading to young children can foster a positive connection between child and caretaker, which encourages them to read more in the future.
Considering the impact that early reading can have on children, it is our responsibility as a society to ensure the next generation has access to it. In a previous article, I shared my thoughts on the negative impact that Reading Logs can have on children’s views toward reading. Instead of Reading Logs, giving children a larger sense of independence and choice in their reading would likely result in more enjoyment of the activity. Having conversations about a book’s content, characters, or plot line helps form connections between two people regardless of age. Adults should encourage the younger generation to read by doing activities they would find exciting as well.
All in all, the key to a creative and successful young generation is giving them a head start on literacy. Reading from a young age provides children with basic tools that will be used for the rest of their lives. Again, it’s never too early to start, so the next time you see your little sibling, cousin, or any younger family member, don’t be afraid to get them excited about reading!
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