By Professor Sam Wass, Director, Institute for the Science of Early Years
The Science Behind Storytelling
Shared reading is far more than a bonding activity — it’s a powerful tool for brain development, emotional regulation, and connection. Recent neuroscience research shows that when adults read to babies, their brains synchronize — calming stress responses and building the neural foundations for learning, empathy, and focus.
A Visit That Reinforced a Truth
When Frank Cottrell-Boyce, Waterstones Children’s Laureate, visited our Baby Development Lab at the University of East London, he witnessed firsthand how shared reading shapes development. His reflection captured what many educators already know instinctively: reading together is essential, not optional.
Addressing the Inequality Gap
Unfortunately, shared reading is becoming a privilege rather than a norm. Many children start school without ever being read to — a situation that threatens literacy, emotional resilience, and opportunity. The Reading Rights report by BookTrust offers a powerful roadmap to change this.
We already know what works: access, time, and connection. Now, it’s our collective responsibility to ensure every child benefits from the developmental power of story-sharing.
