Teaching Reading at an Early Stage of a Child: A Parent and Teacher’s Perspective
As both a mum and a classroom teacher with over 20 years of experience, I have seen first-hand the incredible impact of teaching reading at an early stage of a child. Children who grow up with books in their hands, stories in their ears, and words all around them often arrive at school with stronger literacy skills and a natural love for learning.
In my own home, I began reading to my child from the very first days of life. At first, it might have seemed too early—after all, newborns don’t yet understand words—but what I discovered was that it wasn’t just about comprehension. It was about rhythm, tone, connection, and creating a comforting routine. Over time, these early moments built the foundation for a child who found joy in books and language.
Why Early Reading Matters
One of the strongest indicators of success in school is early exposure to reading. When parents create a home environment rich in language and books, children naturally develop stronger vocabularies, sharper listening skills, and greater confidence when they start formal education.
I have seen countless students walk into my classroom for the first time. The ones who have been read to at home are not only more familiar with sounds and words, but they are also more eager to participate, more imaginative in storytelling, and more comfortable with expressing themselves. Language development truly flourishes when reading is woven into a child’s daily life.
Making Reading Part of Everyday Life
For new parents, my advice is always the same: start early and keep it simple. Even from day one, you can make reading part of your child’s routine. During playtime, choose bright, colourful board books with textures and rhymes. Before bedtime, settle into a quiet space and share a story—it becomes not just about literacy, but also about bonding and creating a sense of security.
Children thrive on consistency, and when reading becomes part of everyday life, it transforms from an “activity” into a natural habit. Whether it’s pointing out words in the supermarket, singing nursery rhymes in the car, or reading a bedtime story, every moment adds up.
The Long-Term Benefits
By teaching reading at an early stage of a child, parents are giving them one of the greatest gifts possible: a head start in life. Early readers often perform better academically, develop stronger problem-solving skills, and show greater empathy through the characters and stories they encounter. Most importantly, they discover that books are not just tools for learning, but doors to imagination and adventure.
Final Thoughts
As both a mum and a teacher, I know that early literacy is not about pressuring children to read before they’re ready. It’s about nurturing curiosity, fostering a love of words, and creating moments of connection. If you make reading a daily habit in your home, your child won’t just learn to read—they’ll learn to love reading, and that is a skill that lasts a lifetime.