Originally Posted by polarbear
I was told by countless teachers etc (whom I respect) that the most important thing to do when children are young is to read to them (just as important as having them practicing reading on their own).

Of course, we don't always get to participate in conventional wisdom as it pertains to our little non-conformers. DS7 couldn't be read to until around 4, but he was reading all sorts of stuff himself well before 3. Always had his own priorities, and they seem to work.