Early Reading Skills Are Improving: What Families Can Do
New data shows young students are making big gains in reading. Learn how your family can build on this success and foster a lifelong love of books at home.
When 25 million American...
The Power of Reading Aloud to Early Learners. Discover the benefits of reading aloud to young children, from boosting language skills to strengthening bonds. Get fun, practical tips for parents.
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How Picture Books Support Early Learning in Ages 0-5
Picture books are key for ages 0–5, supporting language, emotional growth, and creativity. Discover how MamaBear Books sparks young minds!
Every book starts with a story. At MamaBear Books, we believe that every story has a home, and we have made it our mission to nurture those stories, offering...
Discover how storytelling can boost problem-solving skills by fostering creativity, empathy, and collaboration. Learn actionable strategies and real-world examples
Discover the 2025 "Read With Jenna Jr." book list! Explore 22 diverse titles for kids of all ages, plus tips for parents and the initiative's lasting impact.
Discover how to make reading a cherished family tradition with tips on creating routines, hosting book discussions, and celebrating milestones.
Discover how books can nurture a child’s emotional intelligence, fostering empathy, self-awareness, and social skills for lifelong success.
Make This Summer a Season of Stories
Creating a healthy balance between screen time and reading time is essential in the digital age. Start by setting boundaries, such as limiting daily screen usage or designating specific times for reading. Tools like screen time trackers can help monitor digital consumption and identify areas for improvement. Unplugging for an hour each day to focus on a book can be a refreshing change that benefits both mental health and reading habits.
Celebrating reading milestones at home doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive. The key is to make it fun, meaningful, and tailored to your child’s interests. Here are some creative ways to turn reading achievements into memorable moments.
By encouraging children to think outside the box, series books play a vital role in nurturing their creative potential. This imaginative exploration not only enriches their reading experience but also contributes to their overall cognitive and emotional development.
Diverse books are windows into the rich tapestry of human culture. They introduce children to traditions, languages, and histories they may not encounter in their daily lives. For example, a book about a Native American family celebrating a powwow can teach children about the significance of community and heritage, while a story set in Nigeria might explore the vibrant customs surrounding a wedding ceremony.
Interactive storytelling involves asking questions, encouraging predictions, and inviting children to contribute to the narrative. This engagement makes the experience more enjoyable and helps children develop critical thinking skills.
Stories have a unique ability to transport readers into the lives of others, making them an invaluable tool for fostering empathy and emotional understanding. When children read about characters experiencing joy, sadness, anger, or fear, they are given the opportunity to step into those characters’ shoes and feel what they feel. This process helps children develop a deeper understanding of their own emotions and the emotions of others.
Excessive screen time has become a growing concern for parents, educators, and health professionals alike, particularly when it comes to its impact on children’s cognitive development. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to screens can negatively affect a child’s brain, especially during critical developmental years.
Books are powerful tools for nurturing empathy in young readers. Immersing themselves in stories allows them to step into the shoes of diverse characters, experiencing life from perspectives that may differ vastly from their own. For instance, a child reading about a character who feels left out at school or struggles with shyness can begin to understand those emotions, even if they haven’t experienced them personally. This ability to connect with others’ feelings is the foundation of empathy, a critical skill for building and maintaining strong friendships.
Creativity is a cornerstone of childhood development, shaping how children think, solve problems, and interact with the world around them. It’s not just about artistic expression; creativity fosters critical thinking, adaptability, and innovation—skills that are essential for success in academics and life. When children engage in creative activities, they learn to approach challenges with curiosity and develop the confidence to explore new ideas.
Screen time has become an integral part of modern childhood, with devices like smartphones, tablets, and televisions dominating daily routines. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, screen time refers to any time spent using devices with screens, including watching videos, playing games, or browsing social media. While technology offers educational benefits and entertainment, excessive screen time can negatively impact children’s development.
Books are more than just a source of entertainment—they are powerful tools that contribute to emotional, social, and cognitive development. From the moment a child begins to engage with stories, they are exposed to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences that help shape their understanding of the world. Reading helps develop critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and improve the ability to focus and process information.
In an age of screens, cultivating a love of reading in your child can be difficult.