Yes, it has been a proven study that reading aloud stimulates language development before a child can read or even speak!  (Bardige, B. Talk to Me, Baby!(2009), Paul H Brookes Pub Co). When parents utilize more vocabulary with an 8-month-old infant, that same child’s vocabulary is much greater at age 3. According to the Hart-Risley study on language development, children from low-income families hear as many as 30 million fewer words than their more affluent peers before the age of 4. (Hart, B. Risley, T. Meaningful Differences in the Everyday Experiences of Young American Children (1995), Paul H. Brookes Publishing Co).

Now, I am not saying that children are the same as cats, because they are NOT.

I am, however, arguing that the benefits of being read aloud to are still present for cats as well (maybe even dogs, but that is another story!).

I, Kernel the Kat, LOVE being read aloud to! Because my meowmmy is studying to become an elementary school teacher, I found that there have been a lot nice books lying around the house lately! When I come upon one that looks quite interesting … I assume a pose kind of like this:

Then, meowmmy knows that I want to be read aloud to!

She did some research on the topic! Google had quite a few interesting reads!

For many cats like me, who have been adopted by their amazing paw-rents from the streets, it is amazing to hear a loving voice out loud, directed solely at you. It has been said that it helps with our socialization.

As I was reading the google results with my meowmmy, I was fascinated at the story of the “Cat Colony” of The Animal Rescue League of Berks County, Pennsylvania. In this colony, the children practiced their reading, all the while aiding stray cats receive love and attention. It is a win-win situation for all, really.

READING is beneficial for all, whether you are a young, adopted cat like me, fresh from the streets, or you are a little human youngster beginning to develop your literacy! So, pawrents and parents alike – READ TO US!