Raising little readers is easier than you think! We’ve compiled a list of 10 tips that will help you instill a love of reading early on.
- Books everywhere. Don’t limit books to your child’s play space. Consider making some available in their bedroom, on the lower shelf of a “grown-up” bookshelf, in the bathroom (also helpful for potty training!) or on a coffee table. Make sure the books are within their reach and age appropriate.
- Create a cozy reading spot. Consider making an area in the family room or playroom a cozy reading nook. Fill it with with a comfy cushion or child-sized chair, stuffed animals, blankets and a big basket of books!
- Connect with food. Serve snacks or meals that relate to the stories your child enjoys. Add just a drop or two of green food coloring into scrambled eggs and you could serve green eggs (and ham) for breakfast! Some books like Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story include recipes that you can make together.
- Never too young. Read to your child at every stage. Some parents begin reading to their child before they’re born!
- Set goals. Aim to read at least one book per day with your child — even on the busiest of days! And know that it’s never too late to start a reading routine with your child.
- Bedtime. Include a bedtime story as part of your everyday routine. But …
- Anytime. Don’t limit reading to bedtime. Cuddle up and enjoy giggling with your child over a funny book when you need an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Hold their attention. If your child has a tough time sitting still for story time, encourage them to color or manipulate play dough while you read the story.
- Point to the words as you read. This helps children start to associate sounds with letters.
- Ask your child questions. “How do you think that made her feel?” “What color do you think he will choose?” Be sure to also answer your child’s questions as you go along.
