Even the youngest children enjoy listening to language. The coos and babbles that a baby makes are the beginning of language development. You can help your child develop a love for reading and books without investing a lot of time and money. Here are a few ideas:
-Take the time to read to your child every day. Reading aloud fuels the imagination and increases vocabulary. Read more than just books. Words are everywhere – signs, newspapers, magazines, letters, cards, cereal boxes – even commercials on television.
-Read with enthusiasm in your voice. Change your tones as the characters in the story are introduced. You can even introduce hand puppets if you like.
-Surround your child with books. Place them where they can be accessed easily. Keep them in your car or take them when you shop with your child. They are better than “toys”.
-Be willing to read your child’s favorite books over and over again. Children love being able to predict how the events of the story will unfold.
-Allow your child to interrupt your reading. Encourage them to ask questions or ask them questions as you read.
-Be a reading role model. Let your children see you and others in their environments reading.
-Avoid forcing books and reading on your child. Entice your child’s interests but avoid pressure.
-Even once your child is able to read take the time to re-read their favorite books. This special time of sharing will be remembered by your child and will mold their future behavior.
Experts say that the many benefits of reading begin in infancy. Start with short stories or rhymes and progress to longer stories as your child develops. It is never too late to start introducing your child to the joys of the written word.
