When It Comes to Reading, Age Ain’t Nothing But a Number
Little Chelsey joined the Peaches and Sourcream Children’s Foundation Summer Reading Rewards Program at just two years old. She took a break and returned this summer (2025) at age four,more confident and expressive than ever!
Even at two, Chelsey had impressive recall. With her mother’s prompting, she could share bits and pieces of the stories read to her. At that time, she couldn’t spell or write her name,but today, she can!
During Zoom meetings, Chelsey eagerly shares her favorite parts of stories. When asked about Worms and Caterpillars Are Friends, she proudly said, “The caterpillar turned into a butterfly.” And when asked the color of the butterfly? “Rainbow,” she beamed.
During a “share your favorite story” session, Chelsey chose Be Kind, explaining that she wants people to be kind. What made her answers so special was the confidence behind them.
This is the power of starting early. Reading to children in their toddler years not only builds comprehension and vocabulary, it nurtures confidence, curiosity, and a voice of their own. So if you're wondering whether infants or toddlers are too young to learn, absolutely not. The earlier, the better!