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Yes, it helps a lot. Your child loves to hear you read to them and this is one of the best things you can do to help them learn about language, learn to read and grow a lifelong love of reading. They will learn that books, and the words in them can be fun, amusing, comforting and full of excitement and information. Reading – and being read to – is like unlocking a door to learning. It provides access to just about all other knowledge.
Have a regular time for reading together and let your child choose their ‘favourites’ – they’ll enjoy hearing you read to them again and again
Talk about the pictures in books and see if they can guess what will happen next
Praise your child when they make a comment or contribution to the story
Stop reading when they have had enough – always make reading a fun thing to do
Get books from lots of different places - libraries, book fairs, second-hand shops or ask friends and whānau if they have any they no longer need
Show your child how useful reading can be. Point out letters and words everywhere – road signs, shop signs, instructions for toys, party invitations, maps, and bus timetables.
Be a role model. Let your child see you reading often – newspapers, books, magazines – this helps your child see that reading is important in your family.
From Education.govt.nz
-Neil Gaiman
One of our favourite New Zealand authors is James Russell. James writes a fantastic series of books about the Dragon Brothers that includes both picture books and chapter books. What makes these books extra special? They are enhanced through the use of technology. By downloading an app the books come to life! These books are a sure way to hook in readers of all ages.
Want to read more from New Zealand authors? Check out this list put together by the New Zealand Book Council: 50 NZ books every kid should read by 12.