Reading Tips
The single most important activity for building the knowledge required for eventual success in reading is reading aloud to children.
(The Commission on Reading, “Becoming a Nation of Readers")
Parents can use reading, or sharing books, with their children as a way to nurture their bond while developing a skill that is critical to life-long success. Below are suggestions for making reading together a pleasurable experience.
Make Reading Part of Every Day
Read at bedtime, while at a sibling’s after school practice or at another routine time during the day.
A Few Minutes is OK
Young children can only sit for a few minutes for a story, but as they grow, they will sit longer.
Talk About the Pictures
You do not have to read the book to tell a story.
Let Your Child Turn the Pages
Babies need board books and help to turn pages, but your 3 year old can do it alone.
Show Your Child the Cover Page
Explain what the story is about.
Show Your Child the Words
Run your finger along the words as you read them.
Make the Story Come Alive
Create voices for the story characters and use your body to tell the story.
Ask Questions About the Story
What do think will happen next? What is this?
Let Your Child Ask Questions About the Story
Use the story as an opportunity to engage in conversation and to talk about familiar activities
and objects.
Let your Child Tell the Story
Children as young as 3 years old can memorize a story and many children love an
opportunity to express their creativity.
Reprinted with permission
of the Reach Out and Read National Center
An affiliate of the Reach Out and Read National Center
A project of the Partnership for Families Northside
Endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics