Turns out reading bedtime stories is not the only key to success when it comes to developing language and literacy at a young age among kids. According to a study conducted by the Michigan State University a child's ability to self-regulate is a critical element in childhood language and literacy development and that the earlier they can hone these skills the faster language and literacy skills development leading to better skills in the long run. Self-regulation is an umbrella term to define children's abilities to keep information in their working memories pay attention to tasks and even to inhibit behaviors