It seems pretty basic for moms to talk to their kids, from the start. All the time.
But some moms--and dads--don't. Some are preoccupied with their own thoughts and concerns, some are on their cell phones or Ipads and som
I've heard adults say, "How could it matter? They're just kids."
Researchers now tell us it makes a difference in the life of a child--for life--whether a parent talks with her or his child--and how much.
What counts is what comes naturally for most of us: Talking
Kootchy-kooing your baby. Sounding out words with that little one just learning to talk. Pointing out objects and coaxing your toddler to repeat the name(s) and colors, etc.
Start reading to your little ones even before they can talk. You'll be planting happy memories all around. Then be ready to listen as they read to you--or pretend to. Online reading choices abound, but why not make it a habit to visit your public library and check out books for everyone? Books make great surprise treats and birthday gifts, too. You can cut costs by shopping in used bookstores and at garage sales.
As usual, what we moms do counts more than what we say, so make sure your children often see you reading.
All of it counts as you seek to let your kids know that knowing words and reading matter in life, not just in school.
Moms and dads are the key element
Researchers found that the crucial point in a child's literacy and language abilities is how much moms and dads engage their children, that is, talk to them and listen. Everyday conversations. Ask questions while you read to them or they read to you. Sound out words on signs when you walk or drive. Talk about the weather. Is it hot or cold? Rainy or sunny?
Studies show that kids have no better vocabulary teachers than their moms and dads.
Let trips to the supermarket be natural learning times. Ask questions like, Is this apple red or green? Is it mushy or crunchy? How does it taste, sweet or sour?
Help your kids see, too. Call their attention to the colors in a sunset. Can they see pictures in those big, puffy clouds? Identify colors of blooming flowers and the windbreaker that runner is wearing.
It's all part of a child's literacy education
Researchers found words on television don't count as much as words from a mom or a dad to their children. Kids who hear lots of talk in their homes are able to understand words more quickly and will have larger vocabularies by age 2.
The study showed that even in low-income families, when parents talk and interact with their children, youngsters do better in language development.
Just as important, talking builds relationships
Isn't that what we all want? So let's speak love and support, one to another, within our family. Take it from me, fellow moms, our children never get too old to appreciate a good word from us. It's as the Bible says in Proverbs 16:24:
Growing along with you,Pleasant words. are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul. and healing to the bones.
Lenore
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