The Magic of Reading: Nurturing a Love for Books in Early Childhood

The Magic of Reading: Nurturing a Love for Books in Early Childhood

 In this episode of Growing Little Humans, Publisher Layal Idriss joins us to explore the transformative power of reading to children with expert advice on fostering a lifelong love for books. Learn why reading aloud is crucial for early development, when to start, and how to choose the best books for children aged 0–8.  We also dive into practical tips for introducing new vocabulary, navigating bilingual households, and keeping little ones engaged during story time. Discover how audiobooks and digital platforms can complement traditional reading, and hear our guest Layal Idriss’ top book recommendations for young readers. 
Perfect for busy parents, caregivers, and educators, this episode offers actionable insights to make story time magical and impactful! 

Creators and Guests

Leah Arnold-Phillips
Host
Leah Arnold-Phillips
Entrepreneur and Co-Founder of The Wishing Tree Early Learning Group
Melissa Patrick
Host
Melissa Patrick
Entrepreneur and Co-Founder of The Wishing Tree Early Learning Group
Layal Idriss
Guest
Layal Idriss
Layal Idriss is a Saudi Visual Storyteller, Entrepreneur, and Educator with over 100 books and products. She is a leader in children’s publishing in the MENA region and the co-founder and creative director of Dar Waraqa and Radish House.   Layal earned her MFA from California State University and recently completed a  Georgetown University Women in Innovation Fellowship program, followed by an Art Residency in Illustration at the School of Visual Arts New York. She aims to continue nurturing her creative knowledge base as she supports others in the storytelling world.   Driven by passion and with more than a decade of experience practicing, teaching, and consulting, she is working towards elevating the kidlit market in Saudi Arabia and sharing her knowledge through workshops, lectures, and talks.

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DISCLAIMER Growing Little Humans hosts and guests may hold assets discussed in this episode. The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. While we strive to present accurate and current information about early childhood development, this content is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of qualified professionals with any questions or concerns regarding your child’s health, education, or development. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any affiliated organizations. By listening, you agree that neither the hosts, guests, nor the podcast shall be held liable for any decisions or actions taken based on the information provided. © 2025 Growing Little Humans