When you are reading at home to your child remember to…
• Make predictions from the cover and the title
• Talk about the book reminds you of
• Discuss what type of story it might be (fiction, non-fiction, poem, biography)
• Speak slowly
• Have fun
• Let your child talk and share their ideas
• Pick something to learn about with your child
Read Aloud Techniques
• Select books you enjoy to spark your child’s interest
• Read unfamiliar books first to note places to stop and ask questions
• Encourage your child’s participation in the reading session by allowing them to join in by repeating phrases, making comments, asking questions, predicting what will happen, or even reading parts of the material
• Allow time after reading for a relaxed discussion
Questions to ask your child when reading
• Did this story turn out the way you thought it would? Why or why not?
• What made this book interesting?
• Is the main character someone you would like as a friend? Why or why not?
• If you were the author, how would you have changed the ending? What would you change other events?
• Is this a book you would recommend to a friend? Which events would your friend most enjoy?
• What other events would you like to see happen to the main character?
• How would the story change if it took place in our town?
• Have you ever experienced some of the events or feelings that the main character had? Describe them.
• Would you enjoy reading other books by this author? Why or why not?
• What do you think would happen in a sequel to this book?
Reading At Home: How Parents Can Help
• Read aloud to your child, everyday
• Alternate parents reading aloud so that your child can see both parents as reading role models
• Read and write for authentic purposes to serve as a model for your child
• Listen to books on CD while in the car
• Encourage your child to select books based on interest and not on reading level
• Discuss books with your child
• Encourage your child to keep a writing journal and have them write about books that they enjoy
• Encourage your child to read and explore answers to questions using non-fiction books
Reading Activities
• You read to me and I’ll read to you
• Read poetry and verse rhymes and have your child fill in the blank on missing word in the rhyme
• Play sounds games, “Riddle, riddle, I see something that starts with a t, or something that sounds like /t/
• Make a calendar
• Write a wish list
• Write an autobiography
• Make a game board
• Keep a journal
• Cook from a recipe book