Does reading to a newborn really make a difference?

Yes — the AAP recommends reading aloud from birth. Even though newborns can't understand words, they absorb the rhythm, tone, and patterns of language, which builds the neural foundations for literacy. The sound of a parent's voice is uniquely soothing and promotes bonding. Choose high-contrast board books and simple, rhythmic texts. Just a few minutes a day is enough to start. Research confirms parents' early book-reading directly predicts later language and literacy outcomes. Discuss reading milestones with your pediatrician.