Every day. You should be reading to your child every day. I loved reading books to my boys when they were little. They are both good readers and read a lot! Reading to a child EVERY DAY is one of the best ways to help them achieve success in school. Reading should be a fun and enjoyable activity for parent and child. Here are a few tips to help you help your child become a good reader-
- Read any time and all the time but make reading a part of your bedtime routine. Most children like hearing a story every night at bedtime.
- Let your child pick the book and hold it.
- Read your child's favorite books over and over and over again. Young children enjoy knowing what is to come.
- Discuss the illustrations. Point to the pictures. Encourage your child to point and discuss illustrations.
- Read alphabet and counting books.
- Read to your child with expression and feeling.
- Stop and discuss unfamiliar words to build vocabulary.
- Rhyming and silly stories are well liked by preschoolers.
- Use books to help w/new experiences (going to the dentist, first sleepover, a new baby, etc.)
- Use 'voices' for different characters in the story.
- Encourage your child to repeat refrains (for example in the book Owl Babies I have students 'be' Bill and say "I want my Mommy!"
- Discuss what your read to make sure your child comprehends the story. Ask questions like "What do you think would happen if..."
- Make predictions. Ask your child "What do you think will happen next?"
- Get a library card and make trips to the library.
- Make sure your child has books at home. On a budget? Thrift stores and garage sales are a great place to find book bargains.
- Read every day!
