By Jaime Herndon

A new study from Penn State, Columbia, and UC-Irvine, published in Child Development, has found that children with larger oral vocabularies by the age of 2 were better prepared for kindergarten, both academically and behaviorally.

Children with more developed oral vocabularies showed better reading and math achievement, better behavioral self-regulation, and fewer anxiety-related behaviors in kindergarten. Researchers hypothesize that since children with better vocabularies were associated with more involved parenting, early childhood development is especially important for kindergarten success. Home environments can play a crucial part in the academic and behavioral success of a child.

With the landscape of families changing, and parents sometimes working more than one job, as well as single and blended families, it really does take a village. Take the time to talk more with your young nieces and nephews, including reading to them. Also, don’t be concerned about using so-called “big words.” It’s a great way to throw in a quick vocabulary lesson.

In order to succeed in school, from the earliest grades, children require interaction and discussion with adults. Your “QualAuntie Time” and attention can make a big difference.

Photo: oksun70
Published: August 31, 2015