A recent research paper suggests that simply reading to toddlers may not help them learn to read, although it may have other developmental benefits. Apparently (and not surprisingly), toddlers focus on pictures more than words. They won’t learn to read words, though, unless the reader points out letters and words as well as narrates the story. It’s a more active process of reading with them instead of just to them. Other educators note that reading to children is still of value in teaching them an appreciation of books, which lays a foundation for future development. I would also add that it exposes them to new vocabulary and concepts and can help them stretch their imaginations.
Still, pointing out letters and words to help kids read seems to make a basic sort of sense, and is something I think many of us do naturally when our kids are at the right age. I do, however, hate the way many people take every piece of new child-development research and make it into the new “must-do” advice for parents. As I recall, there was one fairly small study a while back that indicated babies who listen to Mozart have better cognitive skills. Now, almost every baby toy has some deedle-deedle version of Eine kleine Nachtmusik built into it. Yes, music is enriching, but I find it hard to believe that babies who listen to Mozart will become smarter than those who listen to Bach, or, even worse, John Coltrane. Personally, I’m all for exposing kids to a variety of musical styles. We’ll put on music while we read and have a grand time.
(Thanks to PhysOrg.com for the sighting.)