It’s world literacy day so here’s our top tips on helping your child to love reading.
Getting the most out of story-time for children.
Snuggling up with a good storybook is the perfect end to a child’s busy day. And it’s also a great way to help your child develop a life-long love of books and reading – one of the most precious gifts you can give.
- Every evening before bedtime allow 10-20 minutes for a cosy reading session.
- As you read aloud, run your finger along the text so your child can follow the words. Let your child take over the pointing or reading if s/he wants.
- Chat about the story. Ask questions like, ‘What do you think will happen next?’ Create suspense and atmosphere by using a lot of expression.
- Choose books with a clearly layout and good illustrations. Classic nursery rhymes, fairy tales, fables and poems are enjoyed from the earliest age. Collections of short stories are great – your child gets to choose from the index, and the stories are not too long.
- Never force a child to read – stop when your child is tired or losing interest.
Literacy Hour
- Create a special book corner for your child at home. Fill it with different reading materials -storybooks, children’s classics, reference and factual books on subjects that interest your child.
- Your local library is a great source of free material take your child and let them choose
- For reluctant readers, books on tape are brilliant.
- Why not try writing a story and making a simple ‘book’ together. First look at a picture book without words, then make up a story to go with the pictures. Help your child write the story on a blank notebook or use a computer.
- Most important of all, guide your child by example – read books at home rather than watching television. Make sure your child sees you enjoying reading.