You can start reading to your newborn right away! Even though they may not seem to be paying attention initially, they still absorb the words and sounds. Reading to your newborn is a great way to bond with them and help them develop their language and literacy skills.
Here are our top 10 tips for reading to your newborn:
Choose books with high-contrast, black and white imagery at first. Move on to bright colors and simple shapes around month 2!
Get comfy and hold your newborn close.
Make it a comfortable experience. Find a quiet place where you can relax and focus on each other.
Read slowly and expressively.
Don't worry if your newborn doesn't seem interested or gets distracted.
Make it a part of your daily routine.
Model asking questions and thinking aloud about what you are reading.
Point out the pictures in the book and make up your own stories.
Don't be afraid to be silly.
Read in various places to show that reading is not just a “sit down with a book” activity.
The most important thing is just to make reading a regular part of your day. Even if your newborn doesn't seem to be paying attention at first, they're still absorbing the words and sounds, and they will love bonding with you through this shared activity.