Reading is a journey. It’s a way to explore new worlds and meet new people. It’s a way to learn about different cultures and ways of life. And it’s a way to expand your imagination.
Kate DiCamillo, Children’s Author
Have you thought about all the wonderful ways reading aloud is helping your child? There are so many ways that reading is blasting your child into their full potential! Here’s just a few:
Books Expand Vocabulary
Think of the way you speak when you’re chatting to your family and friends. Are you using complete sentences and correct grammar? No way! You’re probably also using only a small number of the words you actually know.
When we read a book to our child, we are giving them new words. We are also showing them those words in context and in a grammatically correct sentence form. Plus, we are giving them these new tools in an enjoyable, fun way.
Studies have shown that kids who are read to every day are exposed to upwards of a million words more than kids who are not read to. All that reading really adds up!
Reading Together Builds Emotional Development
Now, you might have read about readers having more empathy. About how stories can teach overcoming obstacles and character growth. You might have even heard of books being both mirrors (to see ourselves) and windows (to experience things we haven’t).
All that is true and good, but what I want to discuss emotionally is the blessing of connection between child and adult when you are sitting together and reading a picture book. Think about this object: it’s impossible to read a picture book together well without touching. The best position to read together is either with your child sitting on your lap or your child sitting beside you, close enough that you can both see the words and pictures.
Just think about all the time you get to snuggle together while you read, multiplied by 365 a year. A quality physical touch between parent and child helps kids feel safe, feel protected, feel loved. It also lowers stress (in both you and the child!), encourages strong attachment. Beyond that, good touches like snuggling while reading also boosts brain development!
I hope you get in some quality reading time with your family today… and tomorrow… and every day!
Author/Illustrator Updates:
Upcoming Events:
Storytime at Pearl’s Books:
November 8, 2025, 10:30 am
(28 E Center St, Fayetteville, AR 72701)
Oklahoma’s Author Showcase:
November 15, 2025, 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM
(Sapulpa Public Library, 27 W Dewey Ave, Sapulpa OK 74066)
Want an event near you?
I am currently booking storytime events and author visits. These events are fun, interactive, and engaging with songs, fingerplays, and reading for preschool-aged kids. I can also do author/illustrator chats for elementary aged kids.
If you know any stores or schools who might be interested in an event such as this, I would love to connect with them.
Book Reviews:
Picture Book: The Book That Almost Rhymed
Discover why The Book That Almost Rhymed by Omar Abed and Hatem Aly is a must-read picture book. A hilarious sibling story full of rhymes, surprises, and read-aloud fun for ages 5–8.
Picture Book: Stuck
Read why Stuck by Oliver Jeffers is a hilarious picture book kids love. A boy tries to rescue his kite from a tree by throwing everything imaginable—shoes, pets, even a front door! Perfect read-aloud fun.
Elementary: Little House on the Prairie
Discover why Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder is a timeless classic for families. A story of pioneer life, adventure, and resilience—perfect for reading aloud with kids.
Adult: Deep Work
Learn how Deep Work by Cal Newport can transform your focus and productivity. Discover key takeaways and practical tips for cutting distractions and working with purpose.
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