The importance of reading to your child

Is reading aloud to your child really that important?

Yes, says the National Network for Child Care. Here's why: it increases your child's vocabulary, stimulates the imagination, teaches him how to listen, helps improve self-esteem and encourages positive social interaction.

Something else the network recommends: Make sure you choose a book that you enjoy, too. If you aren't enthusiastic, it will show. And as you've probably noticed, your child will have favorites and loves to hear the same story again and again.