Discover how reading together strengthens family bonds, fosters emotional connections, and supports child development through shared storytelling.
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.
New research from HarperCollins UK reveals a concerning shift: fewer than half of parents with children up to 13 say reading aloud is “fun for me.” Among Gen Z parents—who grew up with screens and digital media—reading is increasingly seen as a subject to learn rather than a fun or enriching activity. This change in attitude risks disrupting one of the most effective ways to foster early literacy and emotional connection.
The benefits of storytelling extend far beyond childhood, shaping social skills and relationships well into adulthood. Children who grow up with a strong foundation in storytelling are more likely to develop empathy, effective communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex social dynamics. These qualities are invaluable in forming deep, meaningful relationships, whether with friends, family, or colleagues.
Creativity plays a crucial role in early literacy development, providing children with engaging and interactive ways to learn foundational skills. Activities such as drawing, role-playing, and interactive storytelling allow young learners to explore language and communication in creative ways
Integrating audiobooks into a child’s literacy journey doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some practical tips for parents and educators:
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.
Please share with us the Inspiration behind MamaBear Books
One of the biggest hurdles for young writers is coming up with ideas. To help them get started, encourage them to draw inspiration from their daily lives. A trip to the park, a funny moment at school, or even a dream they had can serve as the foundation for a story. Favorite books, movies, or TV shows can also spark ideas—ask them to imagine what might happen if the story continued or took a different turn.
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.
Ashley Wall, Author and Co-Founder talks with David Gibson of NBC'S KETK TV, and shares our mission and how to inspire young readers through engaging storytelling. Listen to their conversation
Award-winning author Ashley Wall and Chelsey Edwards of Chattin' with Chelsea share creative ways to engage your kids to read using Books, Food, and their own Reading Nook.
With a passion for education, a heart for children, a love for reading, and a partnership with The Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation, we are excited for the future of literacy.
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.
Reading aloud is more than just a bedtime ritual; it’s a powerful tool for cognitive and linguistic development. Research shows that when children listen to stories, their brains are actively engaged in processing language, building neural connections that are critical for literacy. The act of hearing words spoken aloud stimulates areas of the brain responsible for comprehension, memory, and imagination.
Creativity is a cornerstone of early childhood development, playing a vital role in shaping a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social growth. During the formative years, children are naturally curious and imaginative, making it the perfect time to nurture their creative instincts. Creativity is not just about artistic expression; it’s a way of thinking, problem-solving, and exploring the world.
In an age of screens, cultivating a love of reading in your child can be difficult.