By Veronika ‘Does reading do any good?’ might be a recurrent question in the mind of Australian parents who read to their children. Science tells the world that reading has visible results in the child’s development.
Reading is a Constructive Habit:
Doctors who research cognitive functions recommend parents to read books to their children right from a young age. Reading children Bible stories books can build good feelings, happy associations, and a passion for books.
Cultivating this habit from infancy and doing it continuously throughout their elementary schooling is ideal. This practice will ensure that the children will view reading as an enjoyable activity in the future.
It is a Foundation for the Future:
Encouraging the habit of reading in one’s home will later boost the children’s school performance. Apart from the many benefits, they also
- Enhance Vocabulary
- Builds Verbal Communication skills
- Encourages Brain Stimulation
Researchers used MRI scans to confirm that the habit of reading makes use of an intricate network of circuits within the brain. As the ability to read becomes stronger, these circuits/networks also become sophisticated and more powerful.
In 2013 doctors found that the brain of people who had meticulously read continuously showed higher rates of activity in MRI scans. The results showed that brain connectivity considerably increased in areas like the somatosensory cortex. It is the part that responds to movements and physical sensations like pain.
Increases Empathy:
Children are a sponge that drinks up knowledge offered to them. So by feeding the right information, parents can cultivate good habits in them. Reading to children, Bible stories books increases the ability to comprehend feelings and sympathise/empathise with their fellow beings.
Reading about God’s love for them and others gives them valuable lessons to follow throughout their life. Studying the Bible characters and their lives builds in children their ability to relate with other people. Scientists refer to this as “theory of mind.” This aspect includes skills that are vital for their life and in maintaining or building social relationships.
Builds Vocabulary and Imagination:
Fortunately or funnily enough, researchers call it the “Matthew Effect”. It refers to the verse from the Bible in the book of Matthew Ch 13: Verse 12, where it says that those who have will be given more.
This effect explains the theory that applies to vocabulary. The more one works on it, the more it will develop and grow. Children who start reading from a young age have a better vocabulary than their counterparts. It is vital in different parts of life, from standardised tests to career opportunities, vocabulary can have a big say on one’s future.
Books are powerful tools to build and improve one’s imagination. Reading activates centres of the brain that deal with creative activity and intelligence. Developing these areas will help the children become innovative thinkers and leaders who deliver out-of-the-box results.
Christian Books Build Christian Growth:
Picture reading to them the story of the brave David, in bed as they fall asleep. They will start to believe in their uniqueness and strength. It will build confidence, faith, and trust. Or consider the story of David’s reliable friend Jonathan. He stood by his friend, no matter what. Such stories teach them invaluable lessons about friendship and how to become a person of impeccable character.
Conclusion:
Reading about the acts of God in children’s books will open their eyes to the wonders of a relationship with God. It will bring them closer in their walk with the maker. As the Bible says, “teach them the way they should go” encouraging them to read from their infancy will help them stick to these habits.
james