Share the Riches of Reading

By Jean Gullikson, Manager of Children’s Services, Carnegie-Stout Public Library

Reading to your children can be rewarding. Research has shown that children who are read aloud to are better prepared to learn and read on their own than children without this experience. Squeeze in at least 20 minutes each day (spreading this out over several sessions is fine). Start by reading to your little one as soon as possible. Share nursery rhyme books and short, colorful books with infants. They will enjoy your voice, attention, and cuddling.

Reading aloud helps children develop richer vocabularies. Early readers are better able to sound out words. Children may ask you to read their favorite books over and over. Repetition is a good thing… even it you feel you’ll go crazy reading The Cat in the Hat one more time! Allow your child to retell the story based on the pictures. Sneak in a “new” book occasionally for variety.

Books can help your family pass the time quietly. Tuck some in the diaper bag for waiting in line at the grocery store or doctor’s office. Have a few in the car to give your children something to look at while riding in car seats. At home, build your own library. Access to books at home teaches children that books are valued possessions. Look for bargains at yard sales and thrift stores.

Get a library card… and use it! Your library offers thousands of books plus videos, DVDs, CDs, cassettes, and more. Librarians can help you select age-appropriate items that are interesting and fun!

Let your children catch you reading! Even if you are busy, find time to read a newspaper, book, or even the cereal box. If your children see you reading, they will come to understand that you think reading is important too.

You model valuable skills when you read aloud. You demonstrate how to handle and hold books. Point out objects, colors, or shapes in the pictures and ask your toddler questions. This action helps your child interact with you and the book while practicing communication skills and learning concepts.

Read for the joy of sharing special time with your child because you love them… not because it is the right thing to do. A bond is created between people who share a book, and fond memories are made. You probably recall some favorite stories read to you when you were young.

Above all, have fun and be enthusiastic. Be patient – children often are not good at sitting still. Sneak in a story, perhaps before bedtime or naptime. Positive experiences with the written word will help you and your child form richer and more fulfilling lives. Books can take your child anywhere… and you can help by providing a positive attitude and motivation to learn!