In the hustle of everyday life—between work, activities, and trying to maintain friendships, it’s easy to let reading to your child slip through the cracks. But those 20 minutes before lights out? They might be the most powerful minutes of your child’s day.  Over half of today’s parents of young children are missing the boat on this critical activity.  Screen time and devices do not compare to the power of regularly reading with a loved one.

The Million-Word Advantage

Did you know that research shows that children whose parents read to them regularly hear up to one million more words by age three compared to kids whose parents aren’t reading to them? It’s true– that’s from a study at Wake Forest Pediatrics. That extra exposure builds a stronger vocabulary, sharper listening skills, and more confidence once they start preschool or kindergarten. In the words of Dr. Monica Alvarez, Early Literacy Specialist: “Books are like little word machines. They give kids three times more new words than everyday conversation.” So, yes, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” really is changing your child’s brain, and quite possibly, an appetite for communication.

Building Brains, Not Just Bedtime Routines

When you sit with your child and read, you’re doing more than storytelling. Brain scans of preschoolers reveal that hearing stories activates both language and imagination centers of the brain (Time Magazine). That means they’re not just listening—they’re picturing, problem-solving, and connecting words to ideas. It’s like a workout for their developing mind.

Emotional Bonding That Lasts

Life with little ones can be chaotic. Reading each night is a chance to slow down, snuggle in, and remind your child that they’re safe and loved. It’s not just about the book—it’s about connection. Bedtime stories aren’t just words on a page, says the Child Mind Institute; they’re glue for families. The physical connection of snuggling and reading together wires your child’s brain to associate being together and doing positive things with their parents as a way to express and receive love.  The regular rhythm of reading with a parent at night creates strong connections.  

School Readiness Starts Here

Programs like Reach Out and Read, used by pediatricians nationwide, have demonstrated that children who read to their parents at home arrive at school with stronger vocabulary, better focus, and increased confidence (Reach Out and Read). Teachers notice the difference quickly. Skipping bedtime reading, on the other hand, can leave kids behind. Without that exposure to language, some children start school already struggling to keep up.

What Happens When We Skip It?

It might not feel like a big deal to miss storytime once or twice—but over time, those missed nights add up.

• Fewer words heard → smaller vocabulary
• Less bonding time → weaker parent-child connection
• More challenging transition to school → less confidence in the classroom

A recent survey found that only 41% of young parents read regularly to their kids, down from 64% a decade ago (Parents.com). Experts worry this trend could leave children less prepared for school and less motivated to read.

How to Make It Stick

1. Create a ritual — pair storytime with brushing teeth so it becomes automatic.
2. Use the library — the Pikes Peak Library District offers free story times, book bundles, and even curbside pickup, making it an excellent resource for fresh reads.
3. Keep it short — even 5–10 minutes makes a difference.
4. Let kids choose — empowering them to pick a book makes reading feel fun, not forced. The best book to read to your child is the one they’re excited about—even if it’s the same one for the tenth night in a row.

The Takeaway

Every bedtime story is more than just a cute tradition—it’s brain fuel, emotional bonding, and future school success all wrapped up in one. By reading each night, you’re giving your child the gift of words, imagination, and love. So tonight, before you turn off the lights in your Colorado Springs home, grab a book, cuddle up, and read. Ten minutes could change their tomorrow.

If you’d like to discuss a place at Creekside Kids for your kids, we invite you to click this embedded link to schedule an appointment. Let’s get to know each other! Like us on Facebook to follow our stories for news and updates. We’re located at 1201 W Cheyenne Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, and we can be reached at (719) 635-9111. Our new hours of operation are 6:45 a.m. until 5:45 p.m., Monday through Friday.