Tell me how and why is reading picture books to young children and finger painting is a developmentally appropriate. What qualifies it as developmentally appropriate?

Young children have been compared with sponges. They soak up everything they experience.

Reading picture books enlarges a child's vocabulary and instills an appreciation for books. The pictures help the child visualize the story and illustrate what may be unfamiliar words.

Finger painting engages the child in an artistic activity, while encouraging him to get messy and experience art not only visually but also sensually.