By Josh Bianchi
Long before children learn to read on their own, many first discover the joy of books in the comfort of their own home.
While schools play an important role in teaching literacy, parents are often a child’s first reading teacher. From bedtime stories to family trips to the library, these early experiences can shape a lifelong relationship with books.
Research by the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation suggests that reading with children from a young age helps develop language, vocabulary and comprehension skills, while also encouraging imagination and a positive attitude towards learning.
For many families, reading is about much more than improving literacy.
Sarah Bianchi said reading together became a special part of family life when her children were young.
“Reading stories to you and the boys when you were young not only created a fun, enjoyable sense but also taught many things, including reading and general life,” Bianchi said.
She believes those moments were about more than simply turning the pages of a book. Story time encouraged curiosity, sparked conversations and created memories that the family still looks back on today.
As children grow older, finding time to read can become more difficult as sport, schoolwork and technology compete for their attention. However, educators continue to encourage families to make reading part of everyday life, even if it is only for a few minutes each day.
Whether it is reading before bed, sharing a favourite novel or talking about stories together, these small habits can help children build confidence and develop stronger literacy skills.
Although the way people read continues to change through digital books and online platforms, the influence of family remains just as important.
For many children, the journey into reading does not begin in a classroom or a library. It begins sitting beside a parent, listening to a story and discovering that books can teach lessons, spark imagination and create memories that last well beyond childhood.
Featured image: Reading to children when they are young can have a powerful impact. Photo: Shixart1985/CC/Wikimedia Commons
