There are clear lifelong differences created in the physical structure of the brains of those whose are encouraged to use their brains as much as possible in the early (especially in the under-five) years.

The baby’s brain increases in density and mass in response to environmental stimuli. Neurons cannot function alone – they must be linked to other neurons. Thinking creates synaptic links between neurons. Neurons that remain unconnected to other neurons are re-absorbed by the body and cease to exist. This process intensifies between five and ten years of age. That means that there are clear lifelong differences created in the physical structure of the brains of those whose are encouraged to use their brains as much as possible in the early (especially in the under-five) years.

The theory that children shouldn’t be “hot-housed”, the expression used to persuade parents to ignore children’s real needs for intellectual challenges, encourages negligence, and means that children become unlikely to realise their full potential as adults.

“All children learn. They can’t help it.
What they learn depends on what they are exposed to.”

“Language skills of all kinds, including reading, as well as mathematics, logical thinking, music skills and much else depend more on what parents have done with their child in the pre-school years than on what happens subsequently in school settings.”

“‘Critical windows’ (of opportunity for key learning experiences) open - and often shut - before a child reaches school entry.”

Under-5 years determine Year 12 results. Achievers have a good time. Make sure your child enjoys the school years.

Q : And why reading, especially?
A : The whole world, and every area of learning, is opened up for the child who can read easily and naturally.