By Demi Clinton

My education and experience from teaching left me with no doubt of the importance of reading to my child well before he started kindergarten. Children who are read to and can read on grade level are more likely to graduate high school, attend college, and positively contribute to our society. I began looking for a program to guide me in my attempt to read early and often to my, then, 18 month old son.

My wife and I stumbled upon the “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” program and decided to start it in our home. We absolutely loved it from start to finish. Our local libraries were eager to assist us in every way and steered us towards board and picture books. We read books before naps and before bedtime. We read to laugh, learn, and know the world. My wife and I loved the quality time it provided with our son and we have many fond memories reading with him on our laps, in front of fireplaces, on planes, with other family, and while lying in our beds. It wasn’t long before I began to see many benefits from the program.

We started the program when my son was 18 months old and by 2 years old, he was very familiar with the alphabet and the sounds letters made, opposites of words, geometrical shapes, numbers 1-10, animals, feelings, and so much more. He was also speaking and comprehending at a very high level and could better communicate thoughts and feelings which cut down on a lot of frustrations for him and us.

Now, my son is in kindergarten and he is top of his grade in every subject. His teachers say his understanding and behavior are exemplary and his attitude is always happy and positive. His coaches say that he is very coachable, listens well, and understands the strategy of the game better than his same-aged peers.

The results we see are equal to the benefits described in studies that support reading to children early and often before kindergarten.

1.   Builds a close relationship between child and parent

2.   Builds high aptitude for academic excellence

3.   Improves speech skills

4.   Introduces and enhances basics on how to read books

5.   Encourages better communication skills

6.   Creates a mastery of language

7.   Improves critical thinking skills

8.   Introduces children to experiences and events allowing them to become more familiar with ideas and happenings in life that are appropriate for their age.

9.   Enhances concentration and discipline

10. And creates a life-long love for reading (Ten Reasons Why You Should Read to Your Kid)

My wife and I, our son, and our extended family love, love, love this program and are excited about sharing it with the new additions to our families and our friends and neighbors. I would recommend “1,000 Books before Kindergarten” to anyone wanting to spend more time with their child and improve their child’s ability to become a happy and positive lifelong learner. The quality time is priceless and the benefits of reading together are far reaching.