Enjoying books and stories from a very young age plays a vital role in a child’s development. It helps children understand language, expand their imagination, and develop speech — all while having fun! The first five years of life are a time of rapid growth, and during this period, parents, carers, and educators all have a part to play in laying the foundations for lifelong learning. Reading not only nurtures a love for books and storytelling, but also supports spelling, listening, writing, literacy, and social skills. Sharing stories together is one of the most powerful ways to help your child thrive.