My niece and her husband have been reading to their three-year-old, Ava from the time she was born. This modern professional couple have been reading to Ava almost every night over the past three years. Hart and Risley (2003) in their research have found that children of professional and educated parents of a mid-to-upper socioeconomic status have a 30-million-word vocabulary gap advantage compared to children in a lower economic status. This means that Ava has heard more than 30 million more words then some other children her age. In their research Hart and Risley find that students, like Ava, come to school with a significant language development advantage over other children who have not been read to every night. These findings also show that the higher status of the child’s parents mean they have access to more, and higher quality books. This study continues finding that these parents are also more regimented and practiced in reading consistency. Ultimately, all children need to be read to, and frequently especially in early development. So that all children come to school with a well development language background.
Ava is not only one who loves being read to, she also listens to books on her IPAD; because many times Ava is in the hospital. Unfortunately, Ava was born with a rare digestive condition and is on a transplant list. Ava loves to listen to stories, as well as, reading books to her animals and dolls. For those who are interested in her, details about her condition, and ways to support the family please click here.
Reading aloud to children builds a child’s vocabulary, background knowledge, and phonological awareness. Research has shown that reading to and with a student has these benefits, it’s also fun. So find some wonderful books and start reading to children as early possible. And continue the practice everyday for 10 to 15 minutes.