Storytelling is a fundamental part of human civilization. It is the means through which communication was first established. Being able to observe and record the things happening around us is one of humanity’s defining characteristics, enabling us to look back at the past and anticipate the future.

Improved Emotional Intelligence

Whether fictional or based on real life, stories are the ideal medium to instill certain virtues and qualities in a developing child. Having lovable characters who can be related to on a personal level helps children learn and understand human behavior. These characters are perfect tools for teaching young minds how to deal with complex and conflicting emotions in different scenarios and situations they may encounter. This significantly helps them develop empathy, leading to better social adaptation and growth.

Language Acquisition

A young mind is incredibly impressionable. This extends to their ability to pick up and easily understand the workings of a particular language. When you read aloud to your child, even if they do not fully grasp what is being said, the part of the brain responsible for language processing begins to recognize linguistic structures. Hearing more words spoken aloud also aids in proper pronunciation and exposes them to a wider range of vocabulary. Additionally, the visuals and illustrations included in books help children associate names with objects more easily and understand the meanings of words.

Foster Creativity

When reading a book, children use their imaginations to picture and visualize characters, places, settings, and things. In doing so, they expand their horizons and learn to dream big. They can use their imagination to explore places and times beyond their personal experiences. As a result, children who read are more likely to develop unique ideas and think outside the box.

Concentration and Discipline

Reading can help create a sense of discipline in a child’s life. Young children often struggle to sit still, but activities like reading require a certain amount of concentration, which trains their attention span. Introducing a regular habit of reading can be beneficial in the long run, as increased discipline helps prevent procrastination and allows them to achieve their goals more efficiently.