Parent's Page

Read-Aloud Tips For Parents

Make reading aloud fun. Read the story to yourself first. It will make it much easier to read with enthusiasm. Use different voices for different characters. Make your voice sometimes loud and sometimes soft to add to the excitement and meaning.

Start early! The earlier you begin reading to your child the better. Babies and toddlers love picture books. As you show him the pictures, tap or point to the objects in the pictures. Young children also like the sound and rhythm of chanting rhyming books.

Choose the best time. Find a time when you and your child are relaxed, such as at bedtime. Read only as long as your child is interested. Young children may be able to pay attention for only 5 to 10 minutes. Read and cuddle! Hold your child on your lap while you read. Reading books together provides an opportunity for emotional growth.

Read and cuddle! Hold your child on your lap while you read. Reading books together provides an opportunity for emotional growth.

Stay with it! Although the life of a parent is often hectic, try to make reading aloud a daily activity. "Reading aloud is the single most important activity for building the knowledge required for eventual success in reading." (Becoming a Nation of Readers, Anderson, et.al)

Read it again and again. Most young children who love books have favorites. You may get tired of reading the same book; however, it makes a child feel "smart" to know all the words. Children often connect with a book in a special way. That book has become a friend to him.

Talk about the story. It is often a good idea to ask questions or talk about the story. "I wonder what's going to happen next?" Allow your child to interrupt with questions or comments.

Visit your public library. Get your child a library card as early as possible. Ask the librarian for help in selecting appropriate books.

What's in a name? Always read the title and the author's name. Use your child's name to develop an interest in the world of print.

Organize "book nooks". Start your own home library. Designate a bookcase or shelf especially for your child. Encourage your child to arrange the books by some method such as books about animals, favorite books, etc.

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