While babies don't typically decode text and read independently, they begin early engagement with books and shared reading activities that are foundational for future literacy skills. According to insights into early development, this crucial interaction starts quite early.
Early Stages of Baby Reading
Understanding what "reading" means in the context of infants is key. For very young children, it's not about processing words on a page but about experiencing the world of books through senses, sounds, and interaction with caregivers. This period is vital for language acquisition and cognitive growth.
Milestones Around 18 Months
Based on early developmental stages and literacy observations, by 18 months, a child often develops the patience required for more structured story-time. This typically involves comfortable moments, like cuddling up on a lap with books.
Crucially, the provided reference notes that at this age:
At 18 months, your child will begin to have the patience for “real” story-time, cuddled up on your lap with a pile of books. Mother Goose and other rhyming books will delight her ears and train her to listen carefully to the sound of language. At this age, your child may want to “read” the books with you.
This indicates a significant step where the child shows interest in participating in the act of reading itself, even if it's mimicking page-turning, pointing at pictures, or engaging with sounds and rhythm, rather than traditional reading.
Activities at 18 Months (Based on Reference)
- Developing patience for dedicated "real" story-time
- Enjoying quiet moments cuddled up with books
- Being delighted by rhyming books and language sounds
- Training their listening skills
- Expressing a desire to actively "read" books with a caregiver
Here's a simple look at the 18-month milestone:
| Age | Key Book Engagement Activity |
|---|---|
| 18 months | Develops patience for story-time, may want to "read" with you |
Why Early Engagement Matters
Engaging babies with books from a very young age, including the interactive "reading" experiences that emerge around 18 months, significantly supports their language development, prepares their listening skills, and fosters a positive association with books, building a foundation for learning to read later on.
