From HarperCollins Children's Books...
"So here are six reasons why bedtime reading rules.
1. It boosts brain power. A study conducted by the Oxford University Press found that children are 13 times more likely to read above grade level if they learn to enjoy books for pleasure. And what’s more pleasurable than cuddling up with Mom or Dad before bedtime while reading Goodnight, Moon?
2. It can decrease stress. No, really! According to a study by the University of Sussex, reading for just six minutes a day can decrease stress levels by 68 percent.
3. It’ll help your child sleep longer. A study published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics has shown that bedtime routines (and the readings that go along with that) lead to longer sleep times, which is often connected with better physical and behavioral outcomes. And what parent doesn’t want that?
4. It sends the signal that bedtime is near. Children crave routine, and when they know that Mom or Dad pulling out that copy of Ten, Nine, Eight means getting tucked into bed next, they’re more likely to cooperate.
5. It’s the ultimate bonding time. A study by the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics found that reading to babies in the NICU helped parents develop the same feelings of intimacy that parents of healthy newborns felt in the weeks following the birth. Thought reading 10 Little Rubber Ducks every night wasn’t so special? Think again.
6. It’s the gift that keeps on giving. The same Oxford University Press study also found that parents should continue reading to their children up to the age of nine (and beyond) to boost academic achievement. It also mentions that two-thirds of 6-year-olds still enjoy reading bedtime stories with their parents. Awwww…
Do you read at bedtime? What books do you add to your routine?"
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