It's been a long, busy day, and you look forward to nothing more than curling up with your child and one of her favorite before-bed tales. Chances are your preschooler can't wait for the story, either.Bedtime storytelling holds particular significance for your child, both developmentally and cognitively. For one thing, it's an intimate bonding activity—"a time for meaningful communication that encour-ages your child's social and emotional development through interaction with you," says John Pikulski, PhD, senior author of Houghton Mifflin reading programs. For another, reading together gives your child a better grasp of written language because she can follow the words on the page as she listens to you speaking them. In addition, books can expand your child's vocabulary, introducing her to language that is usually richer and more formal than everyday conversation. So what's best to read? Certainly consider age-appropriate picture books that tell a simple tale through words and images. Beyond that, take cues from your child, suggests Dr. Pikulski. Talk about what intrigues her—mice, music, dinosaurs, dancing—and find related books. And move beyond storybooks, he adds: "Children are interested in the real world around them." So include among your selections nonfiction books focusing on child-friendly subjects, whether sea creatures, skyscrapers or the solar system. Remember that your local librarian can be a great resource.The repetition of a nightly reading ritual gives your child both a feeling of security and an opportunity to learn. If a crucial work deadline sometimes gets in the way, don't be too hard on yourself. Just make storytime a priority more often than not, and let your partner pitch in, too. Adds Dr. Pikulski, "There's nothing like the familiar warmth of a parent's voice and presence."    One More Time! You've read Goodnight Moon to your son nine nights in a row. But before you "accidentally" lose the book, remember that repetition is comforting to a child and also helps him learn. Here's how:

• Patterns and sequences he hasn't noticed before emerge after several readings.
• Logic and comprehension improve—your child enjoys anticipating what's coming next based on prior knowledge.
• Memorization happens with repeated readings—an important tool for your preschooler.