The Many Benefits of Reading to Your Child—Before They Can Even Speak!

When you think about the essential skills you want your child to have in order to find success as an adult, it’s easy to skip over literacy. After all, reading seems like it will fall into place once they start school. But the foundation for strong reading skills—and many other crucial developmental benefits—begins long before a child ever picks up a book on their own.

Why Early Literacy Matters

Literacy is more than just being able to read. Studies show that adults with strong reading comprehension skills not only advance farther in their careers but also experience greater social success and personal satisfaction. A strong foundation in literacy paves the way for lifelong learning, critical thinking, and effective communication—essential skills that your child will need not just today, but in the ever-evolving world they will grow up in.

Children typically start learning their letters in preschool and kindergarten, around ages 4-5, though some may develop these skills earlier. Kids with language processing disorders, dyslexia, or other learning challenges may need extra support. Regardless of when a child starts recognizing letters, the more they are exposed to books and spoken language early on, the stronger their literacy foundation will be.

Why Read to Babies Before They Can Respond?

So why do we recommend reading to kids well before they can talk, respond, or even sit up on their own? Because reading provides a wealth of benefits that go beyond literacy. These benefits start from birth and continue to shape a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development.

1. Strengthening Parent-Child Bonding

Reading to newborns and infants is a powerful way to bond. Holding your baby in your lap while reading creates physical closeness and warmth, helping them feel safe and secure. The sound of your voice—literally the most familiar sound in their world—provides comfort. Even if they don’t understand the words yet, they absorb the melody and rhythm of your speech, building the foundation for later language development.

2. Stimulating Visual and Cognitive Development

Bright pictures and colorful illustrations help stimulate an infant’s developing vision and visual processing skills. Babies begin associating the images they see with the words they hear, laying the groundwork for understanding language long before they recognize written letters. Board books with simple, high-contrast images are particularly effective in engaging infants and helping them focus.

3. Encouraging Fine Motor Skills

As infants grow and begin exploring the world with their hands, books are great for practice, swiping at pages or trying to grasp them. Board books aren’t just more durable—they’re designed to help little hands practice turning pages. This seemingly simple action strengthens fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, both of which are essential. It’s not hard to imagine how giving a toddler books will help them with their athleticism later.

4. Building Early Language Skills

One of the most compelling reasons to read to babies is the clear link between exposure to spoken language and early language development. Research shows that the number of words a child hears in their first years directly impacts their vocabulary and communication skills. However, these words need to come from real-life interactions—TV and tablets don’t provide the same developmental benefits. Taking the time to read to infants regularly gives them many more opportunities to soak in spoken language.

The Long-Term Benefits of Early Reading

While children will eventually learn letters, phonics, and independent reading at their own pace, early exposure to books provides a lifelong advantage. Reading to your baby nurtures curiosity, strengthens their attention span, and builds their capacity for empathy as they engage with stories about different people and experiences. These skills help them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Supporting Early Literacy at Lighthouse Pediatrics

At Lighthouse Pediatrics, we are passionate about supporting families in fostering strong early literacy habits. We encourage parents to start reading to their children as early as possible, and we are happy to offer guidance on choosing age-appropriate books and making reading a joyful part of daily routines. Our commitment to personalized, accessible pediatric care means we focus on not just physical health but also cognitive, emotional, and relational development—because a thriving child is more than just a healthy one.

Have questions about your child’s development or need book recommendations? We’re here to help! Schedule an appointment with Dr. Sean Park at Lighthouse Pediatrics today.