Despite the efforts of initiatives such as Born To Read and Get Georgia Reading, children continue entering school lacking basic early literacy skills. This is not strictly referring to low-income, disadvantaged students. We are referencing upper to middle-class students living in homes well above the poverty level. These children are entering Kindergarten lacking the basic literacy skills needed. Why?
The next time you go to a restaurant, observe other families sitting around the table. What are they doing? Yes, looking at their devices and scrolling instead of interacting and sharing conversations with one another. They even put electronic devices in front of the high chair.
We have to do better.
How will the little ones learn the language and conversational skills if we are not talking to them or each other? From the moment a little person enters this world, learning begins. We are raising future adults. We are to model what is expected of them from the very beginning. Brain development is impacted by the environment it interacts with.
In reference to the device in front of the high chair, we can do so much better.
Pack the baby bag with essentials such as small books, activity cards, and small toys. Converse with your little one while waiting for your meal or appointment.
Ideas for the baby bag include:
- Small board books
- Activity books
- Small photo books of family photos
- Post-It Notes
Happy Time Toddler shares a great idea for creating a DIY Flip Book using post-it notes and a board book. I love this activity because it creates an opportunity to have a conversation about the book while improving the baby’s fine motor skills as she manipulates the post-it sheets on the pages of the board book.
To incorporate baby sign language in your high chair learning, use the following signs during your conversations. Click to view the specific sign card.
As always, make every moment count as a learning opportunity. Especially from birth to three years of age. The time is NOW.
Let’s strive to read and talk more than we scroll and ponder.
Our children will benefit from it. Our children deserve it.
Would you like to learn five ways to enhance infant brain development from home? Click here.
