Early Reading Development: Why Talking About Pictures Matters More Than Reading Every Word
When we think of reading to young children, we often imagine ourselves carefully sounding out each word, turning pages with precision, and hoping our little ones absorb every syllable. But here’s a liberating truth: early reading development isn’t about reading all the words. It’s about connection, conversation, and curiosity—and sometimes, that means skipping the text entirely.
🧠 What Early Reading Really Looks Like
Before children can decode letters and words, they’re soaking up language through rhythm, tone, and interaction.
They’re learning that books are fun, that stories have structure, and that pictures carry meaning.
This is the foundation of literacy—and it starts long before formal reading instruction.
🖼️ The Magic of Picture Talk
You don’t need to read every word on the page. In fact, some of the richest learning moments come from simply chatting about the illustrations:
- Ask questions like “What do you think is happening here?” or “Why is the dog hiding?”
- Make comments and observations together: “Look at the colours in the sky—it looks like it’s early in the morning”
- Encourage storytelling: Let your child narrate what they see. Their version might be wildly imaginative—and that’s perfect.
This kind of picture-based conversation builds vocabulary, comprehension, and storytelling skills. It also gives children the confidence to engage with books on their own terms.
💬 It’s Not Cheating—It’s Teaching
Skipping the text isn’t lazy. It’s responsive.
If your child is more interested in the dragon’s sparkly wings than the printed words, follow their lead.
You’re teaching them that books are a playground for ideas, not a test of endurance.
👶 For Babies and Toddlers: It’s All About Interaction
Even with the youngest children, pointing to pictures, naming and describing objects (“That’s a ball! It’s red, like yours”) helps build language pathways. Repetition, facial expressions, and silly voices all add to the experience.
🧩 Building a Lifelong Love of Reading
When children associate books with joy, attention, and creativity, they’re more likely to become enthusiastic readers later on. The goal isn’t to rush them into decoding—it’s to nurture a love of stories and language.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or caregiver, remember – you don’t need to be a perfect reader to be a powerful one. Just open the book, explore the pictures, and let the conversation flow.
Blog by: Michelle Brankovic (Senior Speech Pathologist and Autism Assessor)
Images by: Freep!k
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