Whether it be naptime or bedtime, reading to young children before they go to sleep fosters several developmental skills, including language acquisition, cognitive growth, and emotional bonding. A consistent rest time reading routine promotes early literacy and strengthens the caregiver-child relationship which supports future learning and well-being. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of rest time reading and how to establish a rest time reading routine.
Here are four benefits to rest time reading:
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Supports Language Development: Regular reading exposes children to a rich vocabulary and diverse sentence structures, enhancing their language skills. Children who are read to frequently have larger vocabularies and better language comprehension by the time they start school (Child Mind Institute, 2023).
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Develops Cognitive Skills: Reading stimulates imagination and critical thinking. It can share cognitive concepts in a fun context. (Raising Children Network, 2022).
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Fosters Emotional Bonding: Engaging children in shared reading can strengthen the emotional bond between caregivers and children. This close interaction fosters a sense of security and well-being (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2022).
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Enhances Social-Emotional Development: Consistent rest time routines, including reading, are linked to better social-emotional outcomes in children. A 2023 study found that toddlers with regular bedtime routines exhibited fewer behavioral problems and better emotional regulation (Hale et al., 2023).
Even though we know the benefits of rest time reading, it can be challenging to create a regular rest time reading routine. Here are some effective strategies for establishing a consistent routine:
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Intentionally Plan Time for Reading: Establish a regular rest time routine schedule that includes reading time. This consistency helps children understand expectations and prepares them for sleep (Raising Children Network, 2023).
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Provide a Comfortable Environment: Create a cozy sleep time reading space (e.g., bed, cots with pillows and blankets, etc.) that is comfortable. A calm environment helps children associate reading with relaxation.
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Read Age-Appropriate Books: Choose books that are suitable for your children’s ages and interests. Books with simple images and rhythmic text are ideal for infants. As children grow, select stories with more complex narratives (Scholastic, 2022).
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Engage in Interactive Reading: Ask children questions about the story and encouraging them to predict what happens next. This interaction enhances comprehension and keeps them involved.
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Limit Screens Before Rest Time: Minimize exposure to screens at least an hour before rest time. Screen time can interfere with the ability to fall asleep, whereas reading promotes relaxation (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2023).
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Be Patient and Flexible: Be patient and adapt routines as needed. Keep the experiences positive.
Incorporating rest time reading is a valuable practice that supports children’s overall development ( literacy, cognitive, social-emotional) and encourages a lifelong love for reading.
Lynne Hall is a research associate at the Indiana Institute on Disability & Community’s Early Childhood Center. She holds a Master of Science in Education and an Indiana instructional teaching license (Early Childhood Education and Services; Elementary/Primary Generalist; Elementary/Intermediate Generalist). She formerly taught preschool in a variety of settings for over 15 years. Her expertise includes early literacy instruction, equitable strategies, and inclusive preschool classroom practices.
Email her at hallma@iu.edu
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