Encouraging Early Readers Matters (and how you can help at home)
From the moment your child holds their first board book or points at a picture in a story, they're stepping into the incredible world of reading. Early reading skills are more than just an academic milestone—they’re the foundation for lifelong learning, confidence, and curiosity.
Why Early Reading is So Important
Research shows that children who are read to early and often develop stronger language skills, larger vocabularies, and better comprehension. But the benefits go beyond academics. Early reading helps young children:
Build focus and attention span
Strengthen emotional connections with caregivers
Develop imagination and creativity
Gain confidence in expressing themselves
Reading isn’t just about sounding out words. It’s about making meaning, connecting with stories, and developing a love of learning. When parents and caregivers are part of this journey, the impact is even greater!
2 Simple Ways to Support Early Readers at Home
1. Make Reading a Daily Ritual
Set aside 10–15 minutes each day for reading together. Keep it cozy, relaxed, and pressure-free. Let your child choose the book—even if they pick the same one over and over. Repetition builds confidence and helps with word recognition.
2. Talk About the Book (Not Just the Words)
Ask questions about the story and pictures as you read. “What do you think will happen next?” or “How do you think that character feels?” This builds comprehension skills and helps your child engage more deeply with the story.
Reading doesn’t have to be complicated or formal. It can look like bedtime stories, pointing out signs at the grocery store, or making silly rhymes together on the drive to school. The most important thing is to keep it joyful and connected.
Need help with access to books? Check out these amazing resources!
Montgomery County Library - Obtaining a library card is free and gives you access to not only books, but extensive online resources as well to help support your growing reader at home. With thousands of books to choose from, your reader will spend lots of time exploring! Click the link below for instructions on how to get your card today. It’s fast an easy!
Library Card Info
Little Free Libraries - These mini libraries are posted all over the US, and they provide access to a variety of books for exploring. They are free book-sharing boxes where anyone can take or share a book. So far, volunteers have installed more than 90,000 book-sharing boxes near sidewalks and other places people tend to walk by. The goal is to provide 24/7 access to free books. How does it work? Well, you leave a book you are done reading, and take one you’d like to read. It’s that simple! Click the link below to look for a Little Free Library in a neighborhood near you!
Little Free Library Map
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library - Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a book gifting program that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five, no matter their family’s income. Click below to view Montgomery County’s local connection to the Imagination Library.
Imagination Library Sign-up
