Reading is very beneficial to children. One way to encourage and inspire your child to read is to take him or her to the library. There are many benefits that children can gain from taking a trip to the library.
Many are reluctant to take small children to a place such as a library because they feel that they have to keep the children quiet. However many libraries are now becoming more small children friendly than ever.
They are equipped with small chairs, lower shelves, and puzzles and games. While libraries are still not a place for children to go wild, they are not considered to be as much of the hush-hush place that they once were.
Research suggests that introducing children to the library at a very early age is a way to help them develop communication and reasoning skills that they will use later in their life. It is a way to introduce your child to the world of literature and reading.
Children of all ages can benefit from a trip to the local library.
Birth to 2
Babies can benefit from simple books and picture books. They enjoy rhymes, finger plays, and song books. This a wonderful time to begin introducing your baby to how wonderful the library can be. Babies can become familiar and comfortable with the environment of a library.
Toddlers
Many libraries offer a story time for toddlers. These are great opportunities for children to learn to follow directions and interact with others. Children can begin to develop a style for which types of books that they enjoy and which types they do not. Parents can also get a feel for how their children respond to certain types of books and stories. During these story times, parents can also gain a better idea of the types of books that are age appropriate for toddlers.