The Imagination at Play: Reading to Your Children

Some parents think that when a child learns to read, it’s time to stop reading aloud. However, reading aloud before bedtime is a special parent-child activity, and it’s about more than just helping a little tot fall asleep.
When you read aloud to a child, it’s a different experience than when they read quietly to themselves. It’s a different feeling for them. When a child hears a story, his or her mind is able to absorb the deeper meaning of the tale, and also wander off into a contemplative space. In this relaxed, imaginative state, certain unconscious problems are solved.
Developing these skills is very important in the development of your child in the present and the future. Many future tests they take will emphasize verbal skills and reading comprehension. And even though you might think it is too far in the future, you child might want to go to college, law school or pursue a MBA. All of these require excellent verbal skills that you are help developing at this time. A quick look online at GMAT prep courses will give you an idea of what you can expect from the kinds of testing your child will face.
Most likely, there are a handful of books that you feel you absolutely must read to your children. These books may be classics, but they aren’t the same for everyone. Books resonate with different people for different reasons, and the same will be true for your child. Make sure the books you choose challenge your child. But make sure they interest your child as well. The books you and your child share now have an impact on their learning and their future.