My husband and I have been reading to our daughter since before she was born. Almost every night while I was pregnant he read Goodnight Moon out loud. Now at 18 months old, Lily is a very active toddler. One way that we have continued to engage her is through reading and looking at picture books.
Here are just 10 of the many reasons why I love reading with my daughter.
1. Genuine Excitement.
It warms my heart to see her eyes widen as she discovers something new in a book. Sometimes she even shouts out "Whoa!" with a smile.
2. Joyful Sounds.
From reading books together, she has learned how to make animal sounds and how to say the names of her favorite characters and so much more.
3. Animated Anticipation.
As she becomes familiar with a book, she tends to hop, move around, or clap while waiting for an action to happen and even knows when to turn the page.
4. Active Learning.
It is exciting to experience her growth as she learns new words or subject matter while we read.
5. Bonding Engagement.
I feel so proud of her as she interacts with me, points and acknowledges objects, or gives answers to simple questions about the book we are reading.
6. Growth & Development.
I know that reading and interacting with my daughter helps her enrichment.
7. Inspiring Creativity.
I believe that books inspire her imagination as we look at animals, colors, numbers, letters and so much more.
8. Silly Laughter.
Reading to my daughter makes us act silly. We enjoy making funny faces, noises and actions as we read and giggle together.
9. Pure Delight.
Reading together is simply FUN!
10. True Love.
Most importantly I love my daughter. I love spending as much time with her as possible, and reading is one way to do so. These types of moments are the most rewarding activities of my day.