THE PARENT CONNECTION - JUNE


WELCOME Childcare Families!
One of the most meaningful ways to nurture your child’s development is through reading, which not only builds a strong foundation in literacy but also creates special moments of quality time together. The simple act of regularly sitting down together to share food and conversation is one of the most important things parents can do to support their children’s healthy development.
The Power of Reading & Quality Time
Reading with your child does more than just teach letters and words, it opens the door to a lifetime of learning, connecting, and imagination. It is one of the most powerful ways parents can support their child’s development.
Why Reading Matters- Reading aloud to your child helps them build vocabulary, understand sentence structure, and develop critical thinking skills. Studies show that children who are read to regularly are more likely to develop strong communication skills, perform better in school and grow into confident, engaged learners.
Sharing a story creates powerful moments of connection and strengthens parent-child bonds. The comfort of your voice and your presence builds emotional security and trust.
Encourages a Love for Learning
Making reading part of your daily routine instills curiosity and a love of learning that can last a lifetime. Below are a few tips for Making Reading Fun & Engaging
- Choose books that are age-appropriate and reflect your child’s interests.
- Use expressive voices, sound effects, and facial expressions to bring stories to life.
- Ask questions like “What do you think will happen next?” or “How does that make the character feel?”
- Let your child turn the pages, repeat lines, or even read along using pictures.
The Importance of Quality Time
- Quality time doesn’t have to be elaborate, just intentional.
- Bedtime stories provide a calm, loving routine.
- Mealtime conversations build vocabulary and teach social skills.
- Screen-free playtime offers space for creativity and connection.
Explore Literacy Through the TS Family App
- Digital Children’s Library - did you know you can access a growing collection of books and story-based activities tailored to your child’s age and development.
- At-Home Guided Learning Plans - you can enjoy simple, teacher-recommended ideas to support learning at home.
- Development & Learning Activities - you can find hands-on, literacy-rich experiences you can do together.
All perfect for building skills while having fun!
Start small, one book a night or 10-minute chat during snack time can make a big difference. Every page you turn, every moment you share, helps build a foundation that lasts a lifetime.
Warm Regards,
The Early Learning Center Directors
OTHER SOURCES
Here are a few recommended Articles for Parents:
The Incredible Impact of Reading Aloud to Children United Through Reading
Read It Again: The Benefits of Reading to Young Children Head Start
https://www.allforkids.org/news/blog/the-importance-of-reading-to-your-children/
CONNECTION EXCHANGE
We want to hear from you!
This is a NEW! avenue for you to provide feedback, compliments, concerns, thoughts, etc. to the Upper Management Team so we can provide the very best care.
No thought or suggestion is too great or too small! Upper Management will respond to your suggestions and/or comments within 48 hours.
Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to the Wyckoff Family YMCA!

Contact: RichardK@wyckoffymca.org
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