Exploit her interests to get her to read.

Not every kid is an eager reader. Some parents worry when their preschooler can barely even sight read three letter words while seeing kids in the same class who can devour an entire picture book all by themselves in kindergarten. Remember, children develop at various paces. If a child reads early it doesn’t mean she’s a sure shot for being a literary genius. Late bloomers can even surpass them eventually in terms of literacy skills. We have some simple suggestions that can help your reluctant reader.

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More scientific research shows the power of a mother’s love.

Cuddling, talking and playing can really do wonders for children, especially for those who grow up to be in the autism spectrum. University of Miami researchers say maternal sensitivity may influence language development among children who go on to develop autism.

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More reason to read to your kids.

We all know how valuable story-telling sessions are. Reading to your young child is not just good for bonding and fun, it is also linked to better academic performance down the road. Now, researchers say reading is important for mastering language — particularly the English language.

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Kids — what a source of much-needed laughter in our lives!

I have two preschoolers at home who are still trying to master the nuances of language, and in the process have said the most adorable things. If only I can remember every butchered phrase, mispronunciation, surprisingly sage words from the oh-so-young or words just so wrong they’re so hilarious. I have decided to keep a journal of these “isms” from my kids. For your entertainment, I’ve added other gems from my friends’ children. Enjoy and be inspired to compile your own funny quips from the young.

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Nurturing environments also nurture good readers.

Once upon a time, a controversial claim was made that you can read to your kids all you want but that won’t guarantee they will be good readers. That claim was made in 2005 in the book Freakonomics by authors Stephen J. Dubner and Steven D. Levitt. The authors said, having wealthy and educated parents is a better gauge for high literacy. Well, there’s a new study out that claims that’s only partly true.

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Enrich your child’s language development.

Your toddler has gone from coos and giggles to actual attempts at words. So give him a rich broth for simmering his alphabet soup of verbal exercises. Many of us know it’s good to read a lot of books to them to stimulate language. But giving him experiences — like taking him outdoors or simple play — are wonderful ways to encourage his budding language abilities.

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Affectionate mommy, smart baby.

Cuddle time with your baby is fun for a reason. Many reasons, actually – and not just for bonding. The back and forth smiles and funny faces, the frowns, the giggles and loving touches from you are crucial in developing your child’s intelligence, communication skills and a positive sense of self. Experts tell us why.

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Let it run wild!

My son runs around and spends hours at a time as Superman or a T Rex. Sometimes he is Michael Jackson or a member of super rock group Queen. My daughter has several costume changes throughout the day as she goes from cheerleader, to princess, to rock star. Laundry is more work than usual, but I give in because….

Kids are hardwired to be imaginative, and the fantasies start exploding when they reach the toddler years. If you have a toddler or preschooler at home, you may find yourself being invited into their make-believe world. Just the other day I was a client in my daughter’s hair salon! Starting age 2, a child’s imagination starts to evolve, along with the increasing ability for abstract thinking. Experts advice us to support this aspect of their development.

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Not talking yet?

Talking is a major milestone many parents anticipate. Nothing like hearing them utter the first “mama” or “dada” or having your first true exchange of words complete with those cute toddler mishaps like “Pooh eated all the honey!” Early talking has also been linked to better reading and writing skills in the future. And tantrums do tend to lessen when a child is better able to express himself.

When a child is possibly lagging in speech, well-meaning family, friends, even doctors  could tell you not to be concerned. They can say things like, “uncle Joe didn’t speak until he was 4 and he’s fine.” So you brush away your concerns and do nothing. Experts caution against taking the wait-and-see approach when it comes to your child’s speech development. If you suspect something isn’t right, trust your instincts.

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Encourage your toddler to play alone.

Toddlers will always want mommy or daddy to play with, and we should oblige. Playing with your child is great for fun, bonding and learning. But we should also encourage solo play.

For a few minutes every day, children should be able to play as they please, left to their own imagination. And this isn’t good just so you can fix dinner. Independent play builds well… independence, along with creativity and self-confidence.

I would often catch my daughter talking to herself and her dolls, when engaged in solo play. Sometimes she is mimicking lines from her favorite books. Many times she is creating her own scenarios. Experts tell us, this kind of symbolic play boosts a child’s language skills. Read more for advice on how to tap into the power of independent play.

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