Best Practices

Research has shown that “reading to young children is proven to improve cognitive skills and help along the process of cognitive development” (Children’s Bureau, 2023). Reading together for at least 20 minutes a day can significantly enhance your child's literacy skills. This shared activity fosters a bond between parent and child, while also modeling fluent reading and expanding their vocabulary.

Surround your child with a variety of reading materials, including books, magazines, and newspapers. A designated, comfortable reading space can encourage a habit of reading and make it a pleasurable activity (National Literacy Trust, 2018).

Children often imitate their parents' behaviors. By regularly reading in front of your child and sharing your love for books, you demonstrate that reading is a valuable and enjoyable activity (Gurdon, 2019).

Engage your child in conversations about the books you read together. Ask open-ended questions about the plot, characters, and their opinions. This helps develop critical thinking and comprehension skills (Duke & Pearson, 2002).

Libraries offer a wealth of resources and a variety of books that cater to all reading levels and interests. Regular library visits allow your child to explore new genres and topics, fostering a lifelong love for reading (Krashen, 2004).

Incorporate educational apps and e-books that promote literacy. Digital tools can be interactive and engaging, but it's important to balance screen time with traditional reading to ensure a well-rounded literacy experience (Neuman & Celano, 2012).

Find opportunities to read in everyday contexts, such as following a recipe, reading street signs, or instructions for games. This shows your child that reading is a useful skill beyond books (Pressley, 2006).

Encourage your child to write stories, letters, or keep a journal. Writing helps reinforce reading skills and allows them to practice spelling, grammar, and composition in a meaningful way (Graham & Perin, 2007).

Celebrate your child’s progress and provide positive reinforcement. Patience and encouragement are key to building confidence and motivation in struggling readers (Allington, 2013).

Recognize that every child has unique reading levels and interests. Provide books and activities that match their abilities and engage their interests to keep them motivated and challenged (Tomlinson, 2014).