Picture books stimulate babies’ interest when they get bored with toys
You are not ready to delve deeper into any of Friedrich Nietzsche’s works – but The Cat in the Hat would probably capture your attention.
For babies who get bored with soft squeezable toys and cuddly stuffed animals that play music, a Dr. Seuss picture book can be the perfect educational distraction.
According to child development experts, picture books not only promote the joy of reading, but also language development and cognitive skills.
The following is an excerpt from a blog by the National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER):.
“Start conversations about the book by telling the child more about the pictures or elaborating on the printed words. Little ones will learn that reading is a pleasant experience and that books are just as interesting as toys.”
For infants (birth to 1 year) and toddlers (1 year to 3 years), NIEER recommends picture books that encourage active participation, such as “touch books” and “flap books” – preferably sturdy books that can be grasped by small hands. It is important to ensure that the child is allowed to hold the book and turn the pages.
Recommended themes include bright colors, large pictures, rhymes and repetitions.
Sitting your child on your lap and browsing through the book with him or her creates a warm and inviting experience. Such regular shared readings can help the child self-monitor his or her behavior until he or she is able to read an entire story through and focus on the events.
A good picture book not only teaches children to read and love books, it also develops their imagination and gives them an appreciation for art.
Anthony Browne, British author and illustrator of children’s books, emphasizes that a picture book often represents an introduction to the visual arts for a child.
Browne, who was the Children’s Laureate in the UK from 2009 to 2011, was quoted as saying: “The illustrations in picture books are the first paintings most children see and so they are incredibly important. What we see and share at this age stays with us for a lifetime.”
Anabel Perez of Tallahassee says her grandson’s current favorite book features a particular category of illustrations.
“He loves anything with animal pictures,” Perez said of Benjamin Azahares, who turns 13 months old on July 6. “He’s really tired of playing with most of his toys.”
Mark Ryan, a nurse from Tallahassee, is Benjamin’s step-grandfather.
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