For parents, grandparents, and educators, reading aloud isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about building a foundation for a lifelong love of learning, connection, and imagination. And yet, in a world filled with screens and endless distractions, storytime is often one of the first things to slip away in the rush of daily life.

But here’s the truth: reading aloud to children is one of the most powerful things you can do for their development. It shapes the way they think, feel, and engage with the world around them. Let’s explore why storytime isn’t just a cozy bedtime ritual, but a critical tool for helping children grow.

Reading Aloud Fuels Brain Growth and Language Development

From the moment a baby is born, their brain is making connections at a breathtaking speed. By the time they turn three, their brain has already formed 80% of its neural pathways, and reading plays a crucial role in this process. Reading aloud introduces children to new words, sentence structures, and ideas that they might not hear in everyday conversation. A simple book about a mischievous dog named Daisy, like Cutie Tootie Tater Tornado, doesn’t just bring laughs—it introduces rhythm, repetition, and playful language that strengthens early literacy skills.

Research shows that children who are read to frequently enter kindergarten with a 1.4 million word advantage over those who aren’t read to at home. That’s right—1.4 million words. Reading aloud isn’t just fun; it’s laying the foundation for literacy before they ever pick up a pencil. When reading, pause and ask questions like, “What do you think will happen next?” This builds critical thinking and helps kids engage with the story on a deeper level.

Storytime is a Bonding Experience Like No Other

Some of my most cherished childhood memories involve books. Sitting on my dad’s lap while he read Where the Wild Things Are, acting out stories with my mom’s over-the-top character voices, flipping through pages with my grandma while she recited rhymes she knew by heart.

For children, storytime isn’t just about the book—it’s about who is reading to them. It’s about the warmth of a loved one’s voice, the feeling of being wrapped up in a shared experience. Reading together fosters emotional security, creates a safe space to explore emotions, and helps children associate books with comfort and joy.

Grandparents, this one’s for you. If you live far away, consider reading books over video calls! A simple story can make a grandchild feel close, even when miles apart. Books that embrace humor and energy, like Cutie Tootie Tater Tornado, are perfect for animated storytelling, bringing laughter and connection even through a screen.

Books Help Kids Understand Big Emotions & the World Around Them

Kids feel big emotions, but they don’t always have the words to express them. That’s where books come in. Stories give children a safe way to see emotions in action, helping them navigate their own feelings. A book about a nervous first day of school can help ease anxieties. A story about sharing can teach empathy. Books with diverse characters introduce kids to different cultures, perspectives, and experiences.

Books like Wild & Wonderful Alphabet Kingdom do this beautifully, blending adventure with important lessons about self-discovery and resilience. The characters children meet in books become their first teachers, showing them how to be kind, brave, and curious about the world.

After reading, ask, “How do you think the character felt?” This opens the door to meaningful conversations about emotions.

Reading Aloud Creates a Lifelong Love of Books

Imagine this: A child grows up in a home where reading is a daily ritual. Books are always within reach, and storytime is as natural as brushing their teeth. Do you think they’re more likely to love reading as they grow? Absolutely.

Now, imagine a child who rarely sees books, where reading is treated as a chore instead of a joy. That child is far more likely to struggle with literacy and disengage from books entirely.

The Secret to Raising Readers? Make Books FUN! Use silly voices and act out scenes. Let kids pick the book (even if it’s the same one every night!). Make books interactive—look for lift-the-flap, sound, or textured books. When books become an experience, children want to keep coming back for more.

Children who associate books with joy are four times more likely to read for pleasure as adults. Create a “reading nook” in your home with comfy pillows and a basket of books. Kids will be more excited to dive into stories when it feels like a special space.

Simple Ways to Make Storytime a Daily Habit

Between work, school, and after-school activities, it can feel hard to squeeze in reading time. But the good news? Even 10 minutes a day makes a difference. Here are a few ways to make reading part of your routine:

Set a Storytime Routine: Whether it’s bedtime, after school, or during breakfast, consistency helps.
Keep Books Everywhere: A small book basket in the car or by the couch encourages spontaneous reading.
Sing & Rhyme: Rhyming books like Cutie Tootie Tater Tornado help with language development.
Embrace Audiobooks: On busy days, let kids listen to a story in the car.

Final Thoughts: Storytime is a Gift That Lasts a Lifetime

The next time you sit down with a book and a child, remember: You’re doing more than just reading words on a page. You’re nurturing their mind, their heart, and their love for learning.

So grab a book, cuddle up, and dive into a story. You’re making magic happen.

What’s your child’s (or grandchild’s) favorite book to read together? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your recommendations!

Want a printable reading log to track your child’s favorite books?