READING books to a new born baby may sound like an odd thing to do but there are many long-term benefits to a child that are associated with this level of communication.

To begin with reading is a good way to bond with a baby. It is also a one-to-one activity that the baby will get used to. Although the baby cannot understand what is being said he can still pick up on the enunciations, tone and rhythm of his parent’s voice: As the baby grows he will come to enjoy this activity and be soothed by the sound of his parent’s voice.

Studies show that children who are read to when young are better prepared when it comes to them reading on their own. They also have a wider vocabulary and better mathematical skills: All this just through parental input at that early stage of development. Whatever path you may wish your child to take in life, being able to read would always be an essential component, therefore parents should cultivate an environment where reading books is not uncommon but natural.

Introducing books when the child is very young is the best way to ensure that reading is seen as a delightful pastime and not a laborious chore. It makes no difference what type of background you come from, rich or poor; once you introduce reading to children when they are young you are setting a foundation for them to succeed.

Parents who have trouble reading or who do not know how to read, may be too embarrassed to pick up a book and share the contents with their child. But while the child is young the parent doesn’t have to read the words. In such situations it is possible to choose a picture book and make up a story about the pictures. The child will still appreciate and benefit from the one-to-one attention, the quiet time spent together and the mental stimulation that comes from sharing books. Therefore not being able to read is not a valid excuse.

There are some parents who do not encourage their children to read or enjoy the wonderment of books because ‘they’ do not like reading: they may see reading as boring and time consuming. However there is no need to deprive children of a wonderful asset like reading which will one day, without a doubt, help them to attain their achievements. Whoever you are and wherever you live in Guyana here are some points that will help you to help your child climb the literacy ladder.

1) Start reading to your child as early as possible (three months is a reasonable age to begin or before if you choose) using age-appropriate books.
2) Always choose a quiet place to read. If your child is a baby, place your child on your lap, point to pictures and speak softly and clearly.
3) Don’t rush your child’s interest in books, let it grow gradually and naturally at the child’s pace but be consistent. You can make sharing a book a night- time ritual.
4) Buy books for your children, give books as gifts. As children get older and you find out what their interests are, feed their interests with suitable books.
5) Find out where your local (or mobile) library is and borrow books free of cost.
In this digital age where information is available at the click of a button, it is time to rediscover the value of books and what they have to offer our children. You can help build your child’s imagination, literacy and mathematical skills just by taking the time out to share a book at bedtime. Your child will reap the benefits so, what are you waiting for? If you are concerned about the welfare of a child ring the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to childcaregy@gmail.com
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF SOCIAL PROTECTION