Reading books to babies just sounds like a crazy idea, doesn’t it? 

Think again!

Some mothers-to-be even read to their baby before it’s even born!  If that sounds silly to you, think again.  There are many reasons to read to a baby.  For one thing, hearing words helps to build a big network of words in a baby’s brain.  By reading to a baby, we can increase their language as they grow and develop. 

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When we hold a baby close to us and read, it creates a special bond between the baby and the adult.  Not only does he learn the sound of words and see new pictures of the world, he becomes a good listener in the process.  It’s especially nice if you read some stories to your baby before bedtime.  It’s a very calming experience once they get used to the idea.  It also helps create a routine, which is so important when it’s time to get the baby to bed and to sleep for the night.

Babies watch everything we do.  When you read to a baby, he watches you turn the pages.  It’s a basic concept that he is learning about a book.  Then he’s old enough, he can begin to turn the pages as you read.  You will also catch him playing with a book and turning the pages as he pretends to read.

Babies learn by touching, too.  Babies like to teethe on books to find out what they’re all about.  Cloth and vinyl books are great for babies.  Vinyl ones can even go in the bathtub.  Who says you have to sit in a chair to read a book?

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There are wonderful board books at our library for you to enjoy with your baby.  We even have Bumbo seats to hold up the babies that can’t sit up by themselves yet.

Babies are not born loving books.  It’s something we teach them.  Bring your baby to the library for a new experience.  Sit in a Bumbo seat and read a board book together. 

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Visit a baby storytime on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. or 2:00 p.m.  You’ll experience singing, dancing, books, and lots of movement.  It’s fun for babies and you!  Call 868-7703 to reserve a spot for you and your baby today.

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Judy