We often hear that reading is critical down the line, but why exactly should I read to my baby right now? How long should it last? What if my baby doesn’t seem interested? What are the best books for this age?

Here are some considerations for reading time with your baby:

Read to your baby now.

• Most child development professionals believe that children regularly exposed to language and books in early infancy develop higher IQs and more language fluency.
• Books offer ways to tell your baby new vocabulary words you might not commonly use, rhyming and rhythm, and different language structures than they are exposed to in everyday conversation.
• Reading builds positive associations: reading time = cosy time. Creating a habit of reading to your baby helps them learn to love books because they love being close to you and hearing your voice.

What to expect from reading at this age

• Reading can last for less than a minute.
• Babies generally take an interest in board books sometime between 6 and 9 months. Your baby may or may not show any interest in books at first. Keep reading each day even if they don’t seem interested yet.
• Try reading face-to-face with your baby supported by your crossed leg, so they can see your face while you read.
• Your baby will probably not want to read the book from beginning to end. Flip around to follow their interest.
• Your baby might prefer that you stop reading so they can chew on the book instead. It’s all good—they’re still learning about books through their mouth.