Handout: TIPS FOR READING WITH CHILDREN


" Few children learn to love books by themselves. Someone has to lure them into the wonderful world of the written word: someone has to show them the way."

Orville Prescott: A Father Reads to His Children

1. Read with your children every day.

  • Read with your children for at least fifteen minutes every day.
  • Choose a comfortable, quiet, and well-lit location.
  • Give children your full attention when your are reading together.

2. Read for enjoyment.

  • Let children choose the books they are interested in.
  • Let children touch the books, turn the pages and discover the pictures.
  • Let children read to you. Or read aloud to the children.
  • Take turns reading aloud, using a picture book with just a few words on each page.
  • A child may lose interest in a story, but will often enjoy pointing out things in the pictures.

3. Stop reading when your child loses interest.

  • Short sessions are effective. You should not make your children read books they dislike.
  • Children can read a number of books; you do not need to finish a book you start.
  • Re-read the child's favourites. Young children often want the same story read over and over again. Be patient!

4. Be expressive.

  • Enthusiasm is important. Give different voices to different characters.
  • Read slowly, and pronounce the words clearly; use drama and excitement to make the story come alive.
  • Puppets can be used to act out the story.

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