AMES, Iowa — From “The Wheels on the Bus” to “Goodnight Moon” and countless stories in between, a wide variety of children’s books are available to parents, say family life specialists Donna Donald and Lori Hayungs. During September, they’ll talk about the importance of reading to children in the Science of Parenting blog from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
“The research shows that reading with your children promotes language and literacy development and improves their chances for success in school,” Donald said.
“We also know that reading together can be a time for bonding. Cuddling with your child while reading a story is one of those special parent moments,” Hayungs said. “Books can expose children to a world beyond their everyday experiences. Perhaps your time together with books will promote a love for reading that will last a lifetime.”
During September, Donald and Hayungs will talk about the benefits of reading to children and explore ways to work reading time into busy family schedules. Learn more from tips on the blog throughout the month and in a four-minute podcast.
Through the Science of Parenting, www.scienceofparenting.org, ISU Extension and Outreach specialists share and discuss research-based information and resources to help parents rear their children. Parents can join in the conversation and share thoughts and experiences, as well as how they handle parenting responsibilities.
About the Authors:
Donna Donald
ISU Extension Family Life Specialist
641-446-4723
ddonald@iastate.edu
Lori Hayungs
ISU Extension Family Life Specialist
712-737-4230
lhayungs@iastate.edu
Contact:
ISU Extension and Outreach - Dallas County
28059 Fairground Road,
Adel, IA 50003
515-993-4281
www.extension.iastate.edu