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Picture books are important to early reading and child development. According to a report from the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2017, 43% of children in the United States ages 3 to 5 were read to daily by a family member. Furthermore, 61% of children ages 3 to 5 were read to three or more times a week, and 72% of children ages 3 to 5 were read to daily or almost daily by a parent or other adult. A study done by the Department of Education found that children who are read to score higher on tests frequently.
Here’s why…
1. Picture books are important for children’s development. They are a tool that can be used to teach new vocabulary because children can hear the words being used in context and help children learn to read.
2. Picture books provide an opportunity for children to engage in storytelling. As children interact with picture books, they can develop their imagination and creativity.
3. Picture books can be used to teach children about different cultures, and they can also be used to teach children about different topics. They can introduce difficult topics to young children in a way that is not overwhelming.
4. They can help children develop empathy for others.
5. They can provide a way for children to explore their emotions.
While picture books are often thought of as being for younger children, the fact is that they can be enjoyed at any age.
Here is a picture book companion you can use to teach Harlem Grown.
