Tips for Parents
Sharing books with your child can be a wonderful experience! Your child will love spending time with you and it is a wonderful way to celebrate their natural curiosity. Raising A Reader is here to help!
- Snuggle up with your baby! The baby will feel secure from being close and hearing your voice.
- It is ok to let your baby touch and hold the book.
- Choose books with simple, clear pictures. Babies like faces and bold, high contrast pictures.
- Rhymes, songs and simple soothing text appeal to babies.
- Toddlers love book sharing—even if they do not sit still for long.
- Choose books that are predictable, repetitive, or encourage sound/movement.
- Encourage your toddler to make sounds and movement to describe the story!
- Toddlers take comfort in routine and repetition. Try to find a consistent time and/or place to share books.
- Offer a variety of books! Include counting books, alphabet books, and animal books.
- Your preschooler may want to ‘read’ to you—that’s great! Let them read (or tell) the story.
- Preschoolers love stories about friends and family.
Children With Special Needs
- Recognize your child’s attempt to communicate even if the meaning is uncertain.
- Remember that physical disabilities do not always mean the child does not understand!
- Allow sufficient time and support when asking a question.
- Relax and have fun!
Learn more about how Raising A Reader supports family reading!