JAKARTA - Early reading culture is considered to have an important role in supporting children's development, ranging from building imagination, critical thinking skills, to strengthening the relationship between children and parents.
Therefore, the family environment is one of the main factors in cultivating reading habits in children.
Child and family psychologist from the Faculty of Psychology, University of Indonesia, Sani B. Hermawan P.Si, said parents can start building a reading culture at home by providing interesting books and creating a special reading corner for children.
"For example, there is a children's reading corner, there are fun book shelves that children can easily read and take," he told ANTARA on Monday, May 18.
"So, the culture or culture of reading can be introduced early on, so that children are familiar and feel close to books," said the graduate of the Faculty of Psychology, University of Indonesia.
According to Sani, the selection of books should be adjusted to the age and interest of the child. For preschool-age children, parents can introduce large picture books or interactive books that are equipped with sounds to attract their attention.
"In terms of content, if it's for children, physical books are more interesting, and the physical and developmental impact of children is also better with physical books than digital books," said Sani.
"However, for older children, digital books are more effective, because they can be read anywhere and anytime," he added.
In addition to providing reading materials, parents are also encouraged to take the time to regularly read with their children or discuss the contents of the book. Simple activities such as finding picture differences or answering puzzles in books can help increase interaction as well as children's reading interest.
"It is adjusted to the age of the child, the most important thing is that the child feels comfortable, comfortable, there is interaction between parents and children in reading, for example, read before bed, so it is a material for interaction with parents," said Sani.
He explained that the habit of reading together can make children associate reading activities with a warm atmosphere and family closeness. In addition, reading books is also considered effective for reducing children's dependence on gadget screens.
According to Sani, reading activities can help form deeper thinking skills, increase imagination, strengthen social interaction, and build children's character better.
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