Introducing babies and toddlers to reading can set the foundation for lifelong learning and development.

Parents often wonder…what baby books do I use? How do I read to my child?

What Are Board Books?

Board books are ideal for introducing literacy to infants and toddlers as they progress toward kindergarten. These sturdy books combine simple texts and vivid illustrations to engage their senses. They foster early language skills, strengthen bonding, and instill a lifelong love of reading.

Durability and Accessibility: Their sturdy pages allow children to handle them independently, encouraging exploration and interaction.

Visual Engagement:  Board books often feature bright, bold illustrations that capture attention and stimulate visual development.

Simplified Text:  Board books usually feature short and rhythmic text. This makes it easier for young children to listen and understand.

The Role of Board Books in Pre-Emergent Literacy

Board books are pivotal in developing pre-emergent literacy skills among infants and toddlers. Numerous research studies reveal the importance of early book exposure, which significantly influences language acquisition, listening skills, and vocabulary development.

Research indicates that early brain development makes the first three years a critical period full of opportunities for fostering achievement and well-being (McKinsey & Company, 2009; Phillips et al., 1998; Tamis LeMonda et al., 2017).

 Key benefits include:

• Language Skills: Regular reading sessions expose children to various sounds and word patterns, fostering early phonemic awareness.
  
  
• Cognitive Development: Board books introduce basic concepts of stories and sequences, enhancing cognitive connections.
  
  
• Emotional and Social Growth: Shared reading experiences help children bond with caregivers, developing empathy and emotional awareness.

Shared Reading Increases Empathy

Dr. Pamela Sullivan, Professor in the College of Education at James Madison University [01:05]

4 Tips for Using Board Books for Early Literacy

Create Reading Routines:  Establishing regular reading routines, such as storytime before naps or bedtime, helps build a consistent habit that children come to expect and enjoy. This consistency can significantly influence their comfort with books and reading behavior (Zero to Three, 2021).

Use Books as Interactive Tools:  Engage actively with your child during reading sessions. Point to pictures, ask questions about the images and relate them to the child's environment. This interaction enhances language development and comprehension by connecting the book and the natural world (NAEYC, 2021).

Encourage Handling and Interaction: Allow children to explore board books independently. Their study pages can help develop fine motor skills as they learn to turn pages and point to items of interest (Reading Rockets, 2021).

Choose Books with Diverse and Relevant Content:  Select board books with different topics including everyday activities, animals, and family scenes. This broadens a child's understanding and vocabulary. Books that include children in similar age groups or developmental stages are particularly relatable (Zero to Three, 2021).

Incorporate Multisensory Elements:  Books with different textures, sounds, or built-in activities like flaps to lift stimulate senses and make reading more engaging. These features help maintain interest and cater to the sensory learning style of young children (NAEYC, 2021).

Support Early Literacy With Just Right Reader Board Books

Just Right Reader Board Books are tailored to support developmental milestones in early childhood, from language and literacy to cognitive and social-emotional skills.
Features and benefits include: 

• Built to Bond: These books are designed to build literacy and readiness skills.
  
  
• Developmentally Appropriate Content: Stories mirror developmental milestones, engaging children in age-appropriate learning.
  
  
• Incorporation of Baby Sign Language: Before babies can speak, these books help them communicate, enhancing early communication skills.

Built to Bond Books for Infants: Talk, Read, Sing, Play, Love!

The journey to literacy begins at birth. OurBoard Books support developmental skills critical in the first three years of life — from language and literacy to physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Our Board Books feature:

• Research-backed books aligned to your Early Learning Standards
  
  
•  Vibrant illustrations and engaging stories based on developmental milestones
  
  
• Bite-sized tips, baby sign language, and videos for caregivers with every title
  
  
• Learning Together Guides equip caregivers with easy tips and fun ideas for their child’s journey to literacy

Build literacy and readiness skills in every child in your community in the critical first three years of life withJust Right Reader Board Books.

Visit this link or scan the QR Code to read My Feelings.
bit.ly/MyFeelingsBoardBook