Discover how reading can help children learn and grow!
You can begin at any age, even before they are born! This can help make your voice comforting and familiar from the very start.
Books can help your child expand their vocabulary. By repeating the same stories over and over, they can learn new words, sounds, and letters, which will help them when they start school.
Pick books with subjects your child may not have learned about yet, like animals, seasons, shapes, or colors. Reading is a fun way to show them both real things and make-believe adventures.
Give each character a silly voice and react to the story! This can help your child learn about feelings and keep them focused. They may copy your funny expressions, movements, or voices as you read.
Play word games with your child to help them think about sounds and categories. While reading, ask questions, let them point to and name items, and have them turn the pages. If a sentence repeats, toddlers might like to finish or say it again.
Help your child practice by using street signs or packaging on groceries. Label items in your home when your child is learning to read. This can help them remember the names of things they see each day.
Consider reading at the same time each day, such as before naps or bedtime. Read for at least a few minutes at a time, or longer if your child remains interested.
Thunderstorms and monsters are easier to handle on the pages of a book, especially when you're there for comfort! You can explain more about these topics while allowing your child to express their emotions.
If you read in your free time, your child may be more likely to pick up a book on their own. Visit your local library and choose books with your child that you can read together. Ask a librarian if they have read-aloud storytimes or summer reading programs.
Make sure to focus on your child completely, let them sit on your lap if they want, and have fun sharing this special time together!
Ask your pediatrician if they participate in the Reach Out and Read program. They may be able to provide books for your child.
healthychildren.org: How to Share Books With Your Baby
healthychildren.org: 10 Tips To Help Your Child Fall in Love with Reading
healthychildren.org: Developmental Milestones of Early Literacy
healthychildren.org: Is Your Child Ready To Read?
imaginationlibrary.com: Find Out if Dolly Parton's Free Book Program is Available in Your Area
