Reading aloud to children ‘holds key to genius’

CHILDREN who have been read aloud to from an early age become the best readers and have a greater chance of becoming a budding genius, according to the experts.

This message was driven home at the launch yesterday of a “Guide to Books for 0-5 year-olds”, aimed at making reading for under fives a fun and educational time for both parents and child.

The free guide available from Barnardos National Children Resource Centres throughout Ireland lists a number of favourite publications for children aged up to five years.

Launched by RTÉ journalist Sharon Ní Bheoláin and her 10-month-old daughter Faye at Pearse Street Public Library in Dublin, the material in the guide was developed and compiled by Barbara Ryan, a childcare worker in one of Barnardos family support services in Dublin.

Ms Ryan said the most important thing to develop literacy in children was being read to by adults and friends.

“It opens their imaginations, teaches them new words, new ideas and new languages,” said Ms Ryan.

Tributes were paid to Cow and Gate for sponsoring the guide.

Aileen Regan, Cow and Gate head of customer service, said that as a starting point to introducing the joys of reading to the very young the guide offered stimulating food for thought for parents, relatives and carers.