How to read a book to your baby
You are a first-time parent; it is normal to get awkward when you read a book to your baby. Since the baby is not speaking the same language as us, we always wonder whether we are doing it right or wrong.
The good thing about reading aloud to your baby? You do not have to prepare much.
It just takes you, your baby and a book!
When to read
One of the most important things about reading a book to your baby is to choose the right time, which is when your baby is dry, fed and alert. You can’t read a book when the baby is crying and needs some milk, right?
Try to read before nap time and bedtime every day. Reading before bedtime gives you and your baby time to cuddle and connect. This will create bonding, which is very important for emotional development. This also will establish a routine that will help calm your baby.
The most important thing is you and your baby enjoy this moment
If you can’t get that specific time, it's okay! Once you and your baby are ready, you can grab a book and read to your baby. Do not get stressed if you can’t finish entire books. The most important thing is for you, and your baby to enjoy this moment, and do it often.
How to read
To read to children, you need to bring out your inner child, and look at your baby full of love.
Some other tips:
Do not be afraid to make silly expression and sound.
Cuddling while you read helps your baby feel safe, warm, and connected to you.
Read with expression, make your voice higher or lower where it's appropriate, or use different voices for different characters. Do not be afraid to make silly expression and sound.
Be animated!
Don't worry about following the text exactly. Stop once in a while and ask questions or make comments on the pictures or text. ("Where's the kitty? There he is! What a cute black kitty.") Your child might not be able to respond yet, but this lays the groundwork for doing so later.
Sing nursery rhymes, make funny animal sounds, or bounce your baby on your knee — anything that shows that reading is fun.
Babies love — and learn from — repetition, so don't be afraid of reading the same books over and over. When you do, repeat the same emphasis each time as you would with a familiar song.
As your baby gets older, encourage your little one to touch the book or hold sturdier vinyl, cloth, or board books. You don't want to encourage chewing on books, but by putting them in the mouth, your baby is learning about them, finding out how books feel and taste — and discovering that you can't eat them!
What to Read
your loving presence is crucial
Books for babies should have simple, repetitive, and familiar text and clear pictures. Babies are more attracted to high contrast images, and for ages 0-6 months, the best images are black and white contrast pictures.
Remember, your loving presence is crucial. The book is a plus point.
We would like to give credit to Lisa S. Cort, Associate Professor in Psychology Univerisity Fluorida for the article “For baby’s brain to benefit, read the right books at the right time” . You can read the article here
Reference:
1. Fantz, R. “Maturation of Pattern Vision in Young Infants.” Journal of Comparative and Physiological Psychology, Vol. 55 (1962), p. 907
2. Bower, T.G.R., “A Primer of Infant Development. San Francisco: W.H. Freeman and Co., 1977, p. 9.