What age to start to teach your child to read?
Receiving feedback from your child's kindergarten teacher about their progress in reading sentences from a board book undoubtedly fills any parent with joy. However, this excitement can quickly wane upon hearing that other children are diving into 50-page young reader books. It's natural to wonder if a different kindergarten could have provided a better foundation. Many parents find themselves grappling with similar thoughts, questioning the efficacy of their child's early education when faced with others' apparent successes.
Yet, amidst these concerns, it's crucial to shift the focus from blame to understanding. Why do some children struggle with reading while others seemingly excel? This inquiry marks the beginning of a journey toward helping our children overcome literacy obstacles.
Firstly, it's essential for parents to grasp the optimal age for introducing literacy skills. Contrary to common belief, the groundwork for reading begins far earlier than preschool. Scientific research underscores the significance of the first six years of a child's life as a critical period for development. During this time, the brain undergoes rapid growth and is exceptionally receptive to learning.
Parents can kickstart their child's literacy journey from infancy, leveraging the remarkable capacity of young minds to absorb information. Contrary to the misconception that babies are too young to comprehend written language, they possess a remarkable ability to assimilate visual and auditory stimuli. With appropriately designed materials—such as board books with large print or homemade word cards—parents can initiate this process effectively.
Figure 1 Teaching your child to read
However, recognizing the constraints of busy schedules, some parents may seek support in this endeavour. Our Yoobain program focuses on early right brain development offer valuable resources, including a plethora of word cards in English and Chinese languages. By engaging in such initiatives, parents can provide their children with enriched learning opportunities during this critical phase of brain development. Language, in all its forms, shapes our lives from the very beginning. Whether spoken, sung, or read aloud, it weaves a tapestry of understanding and expression.
Ultimately, investing in early childhood education lays the groundwork for lifelong success. By nurturing our children's cognitive abilities from birth, we unlock their full potential and pave the way for a future marked by intellectual growth and achievement. Let's embrace the power of early literacy development and ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.