Engaging in the simple yet profound act of reading to young children can have lasting impacts on their development and future academic success. Every Tuesday, a volunteer visits a local elementary school in Bend to spend an hour with kindergartners, fostering a love for reading. Through this interaction, both the children and the volunteer are reminded of the magic that books can bring into their lives. The importance of instilling a passion for reading is underscored by Oregon's below-average fourth-grade reading scores and studies showing that early reading habits significantly influence a child's literacy skills. This article explores how reading to young children not only enhances language skills but also builds empathy and opens doors to new worlds.

In today’s fast-paced world, taking time to read to a five-year-old might seem like a small gesture, but its impact is immense. Each week, I visit an elementary school where I spend quality time with kindergartners, immersing them in stories of dinosaurs, whales, and other fascinating topics. These sessions are more than just educational—they spark imagination and create memorable moments. Children learn that reading is not just a task but an adventure that can transport them anywhere. Watching their excitement as they choose books and dive into stories is truly rewarding. My own experiences of reading to my children echo in these moments, reminding me of the joy and connection that books can foster.

The significance of early reading cannot be overstated. According to recent statistics, Oregon's fourth-grade reading levels fall below the national average. Research indicates that if a child struggles with reading by the end of first grade, they are likely to continue struggling throughout their academic journey. To combat this, it's crucial to make reading enjoyable from an early age. Scholastic’s “100 Reasons to Love Reading” highlights the transformative power of books, emphasizing how they serve as both an escape and a tool for personal growth. By introducing children to the wonders of literature, we can help them develop essential life skills such as empathy and critical thinking.

Reading to children offers numerous long-term benefits. It helps expand their vocabulary and language skills, teaches them how to navigate challenging emotions, and exposes them to diverse perspectives. Sharing a book creates bonding opportunities between adults and children, strengthening relationships. Whether it's at breakfast, during an afternoon snack, or before bedtime, there's always a perfect moment to pick up a book. Stocking various spaces around the home with books ensures they are easily accessible, encouraging spontaneous reading sessions. For younger children, indestructible and board books offer durable options with engaging content tailored to their interests.

In 2025, several new releases promise to captivate young readers. Jory John and Pete Oswald’s “The Smart Cookie” introduces a cookie character who seeks answers, while Catherine Rayner’s “Molly, Olive and Dexter: You Can’t Catch Me” features delightful illustrations of animal friends discovering their strengths. Jennifer E. Smith and Leo Espinosa’s “The Creature of Habit Tries His Best” humorously depicts a rabbit learning to ride a bike, and Matthew Cordell’s “To See an Owl” uses beautiful pencil drawings to tell a heartwarming story of a girl’s quest to spot an owl. Ultimately, the choice of books matters less than the act of reading itself. Any book can ignite a lifelong love for reading in a child.

Atticus Finch once said, "Every time we open a book, every time we care about a character, we build empathy with others and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves." By nurturing this love for reading in young children, we equip them with invaluable tools for life. Encouraging them to explore different genres and subjects not only broadens their horizons but also fosters a curiosity that will serve them well beyond childhood. So, let’s embrace the joy of reading and transform any child into a lifelong book lover.