The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Where the Wild Things Are. Anne of Green Gables. You probably have fond childhood memories of reading these and other classic books. 

But now, technology is everywhere — including in schools, where children use devices like tablets and computers. Some schools are moving away from textbooks in favor of digital learning. 

With all this tech, you may wonder: Are books still a big deal? The answer is a resounding “yes!” While e-readers are an option, research suggests more benefits come from physical books. And as greater emphasis is placed on technology in schools, it’s important to incorporate reading at home. 

So, what makes reading books so worthwhile, and how can you make it part of your family’s routine? Here’s what you need to know.

Open a Book, Open a World

Reading with your child doesn’t just improve their literacy. It also helps kids:

• Gain language skills. Reading to babies helps them develop pathways they need for language. Young children can learn thousands of new words when you read to or with them.
• Build an even stronger bond with you. Storytime helps you slow down and connect. 
• Learn about the world. Books help kids enhance their general knowledge, which makes it easier for them to learn at school and improves their cultural literacy. This helps them appreciate people who are different from them and encourages empathy and compassion.  
• Understand emotions. Reading stories together gives you the opportunity to talk about the wide range of feelings that a story’s characters may have and relate them to their own experiences.

Read Together, Grow Together

It can be fun and rewarding to read with your child. Here are some helpful strategies: 

• Choose books at your child’s developmental level. Look for books they find interesting, fun and relatable. Just make sure they are age-appropriate and help them explore content as they grow up. 
• Keep reading with your kids even after they can read. This keeps your connection strong and gives your child access to stories a bit above their reading level. 
• Find time to read every day. This could be at bedtime or another time. Do what works for your family. 
• Consider setting goals. A reading goal — for example, 20 minutes per day — could improve your child’s reading skills. Just be careful not to put too much pressure on your child so reading stays enjoyable.

Now, pick a great book and start turning those pages with your child! You’ll both be glad you did.