The average parent reads the same bed story to their little one 416 times a year

The average parent will read the same bedtime story to their little one 416 times a year.



A poll of 1,000 mum and dads with children aged up to four found 79 per cent have re-read the same book at their child’s request.



With the typical week seeing them read their child’s favourite tale from start to finish an average of eight times, with parents putting up with the same book on six consecutive days.



It also emerged they dedicate 48 minutes to reading the most loved book each week - with each individual read lasting six minutes.



More than eight in 10 (82 per cent) are so familiar with their child's favourite stories that they can recite at least one off by heart, with many claiming they can remember as many as eight.



Busy Bees [https://www.busybeeschildcare.co.uk/bee-curious/welcome-to-bee-curious] commissioned the research following the launch of Bee Curious, an independently evaluated early years curriculum.



It is scientifically designed to ignite a lifelong love of learning through play and storytelling, giving children a head start in school and fostering key early development skills.



Jenny Shaw, academic lead at the childcare provider, said: “Storytelling is crucial for children’s development, helping them to enjoy quality time with loved ones, learn about the world around them and increase vocabulary.



“Stories are key in nurturing children’s language development, and it’s been proven that the number of words a child hears and speaks by the age of three plays a key role in their future literacy, communication skills, and academic success.