Many fun experiences can be shared together at home to encourage and support reading development. According to research, here are some suggestions for parents to build children's reading skills:
Let your child see you read often. When you value reading, your child will view reading with pleasure.
Begin reading aloud to your child as a baby. Continue reading orally to your child long after she is reading on her own. Your child will learn expression, increase her vocabulary, improve listening skills and enjoy time with you.
Read favorite books over and over again. This offers benefits for your child; he is learning how to predict what will happen next and the order in which events happen in the story. Only you are tired of the same book, so enjoy!
Provide lots of reading materials at home. Make sure that books, magazines and news papers are readily available in various areas of the home including play areas.
Make reading time a priority. With busy schedules, it is easy for reading to get pushed aside for other activities. Reading is a skill which improves with practice. Research shows children who spend as little as 30 minutes a day reading are more likely to become good readers. Fit in little bits of reading time whenever you can.
Make frequent trips to the library. This can be an enjoyable family outing. Remember to check out books about activities your child is involved in. Your child will love books that are like her own experiences.
Consider giving books as gifts. This sends a positive message that books are fun and exciting. Books make great Easter, Christmas and birthday presents.
You may often compete with television for your child's time. Incorporate reading skills into T.V. viewing by discussing the program with your child. Could that happen in real life? Which character would you like to be and why?
Talk to your child about everyday happenings. Show interest in what your child has to say. Point out words that your child sees on signs and stores.
By providing a variety of opportunities and resources for your child to read, by being a role model and by providing praise for your child's accomplishments, you can develop the reading potential and ability of your child.
