Early exposure to language and literacy predicts strong reading skills later in life.
Given the course of brain development, it is not surprising that young children who are exposed to certain early language and literacy experiences usually prove to be good readers later. Just as a child develops language skills long before being able to speak, the child also develops literacy skills long before being able to read.
National Research Council. (1998). Preventing Reading Difficulties in Young Children. Washington, D.C.: National Academy Press.