I've always loved reading stories to kids. I even remember how much I loved being read to when I was young. The relaxing setting it creates while listening to someone tell you a story and then getting to see the pictures on the page come to life.

I love when a child has a favorite book. You know they do when they ask you to read the same story over and over again. It can become rather repetitive, I've memorized several books word for word, but something about the way the child gets excited and just listens closely to every word you say makes it worth it.

I think it's important to read to a child at least once a day. You spend time with them and it's actually quite beneficial to them as well. Here are all the reasons why I think reading to kids is important.

1. The Bond

The bond you create with your child when reading to them is truly something special. When I'm sitting on the couch reading to the kids at my daycare I can't help but smile. They're so engaged and the time we get to spend together is wonderful.

2. Language

Reading helps children develop their language skills. They get to hear you speak and they begin to understand words and the context in which they're used in.

3. Academics

Reading gets kids engaged. They learn to read and they learn to focus. They understand sitting still and paying attention to something. When school comes around they will do a lot better.

4. Listening Skills

Kids learn to listen when they hear you read. They practice sitting still and paying attention. This is great for practicing their listening skills.

5. Less Screen Time

In a world full of technology it's important to get kids involved with something other than a screen. Reading is a great idea for this. Books are awesome and getting kids to like them and be interested is good.

6. Role Model

Taking the time to read to your child shows how much you care. It's setting a good example to them about how it's good to read and learn and it's something they might take on and do with their own kids one day.

7. Vocabulary

Reading enhances kids vocabulary. Reading is the way kids learn new words and what they mean. It helps their speech a lot.

8. Comprehension

Books always have a good story to tell. Something that helps kids learn so much more than just words. They learn to understand different situations and what things mean.

9. Reading Is Fun

Kids should know that reading can be fun. It's not boring or a punishment.

10. Imagination

Reading helps kids build their imagination. They get to see the pictures come to life as they hear you read. As they get older and move on from picture books they learn to imagine what it is they're reading/hearing. They can create the whole scene inside their heads.

Reading is good for kids in so many different ways. It's incredibly beneficial for you to take time out of your day to read to your kids. The time you spend with them means so much more to them than we sometimes realize.