Teaching Your Child to Read from an Early Age
A child can start reading as soon as they are born; it is an incredible journey. Research has indicated that just 20 minutes of reading per day, starting from birth, can significantly impact a child’s speed-reading capability. This guide will walk you through the process of reading aloud to your child from birth until they begin to explore complicated chapter books in their grade school years. We’ll also talk about how to help kids with trouble reading at school.
A Simple Guide to Reading with Your Child
Choose books with highly contrasted imagery (e.g., black-and-white photos) that are simple, clear, and have a nice rhythm. As you read to your infant, ensure they can see the pictures and hear your voice. You can read books to children while they go to sleep whenever they are calm and relaxed so they can focus. Some children would like to touch the book, so the parent or caregiver can let them touch it and explore it while reading.
Reading with Your Baby and Toddler
Choose a nice, quiet place and relax with your little one as best. Creating a calm environment can help them settle for a bedtime story. As your child develops, so will their reading. Can the following tips help them in their reading journey:
- Infants: As the baby grows, you can introduce books with bright colors, textures they can touch, and simple language.
- Toddlers: By this age, your child may start to show interest in pointing at the pictures and turning pages. Try to read short stories with repetitive phrases.
- Engage them by asking questions like, “Where is the cow?” or “What sound does a cat make?” mew.
Building a Foundation of Reading from ages Two to Preschool
At this age, kids start repeating words and trying to understand more. They can also learn sight words. Additionally, they might begin to memorize and recite passages from their favorite books. Try introducing the following books for your toddler or preschooler.
- Bob Books are a great way to introduce your child to sight words and sentences.
- Recommended books for reading include rhyming books and songbooks, as these aid in phonics and language development.
- Lift-the-flap books, books with sound buttons, or pages with many textures engage toddlers.
Pre-K to Kindergarden
At this age, children are starting to recognize letters and comprehend how they fit together to make words. Some might even begin to sort out words independently. Choose books with brief sentences and readable language for alphabets and books.
Grade School Beyond Kindergarden
As children approach 7 or 8 years old, they can start reading by themselves. As the vocabulary becomes familiar to them, they become more confident.
Supporting children with reading difficulties
- Offer a range of books, from picture books with more complex stories to beginner chapter books with short paragraphs and illustrations.
- Encourage daily reading time, either on their own or with you. Let them choose books they’re excited about.
- After reading, I will discuss the story with you, asking questions like, “What was your favorite part?” or “What do you think will happen next?”
Conclusion
Starting early with reading to your child lays the foundation for a lifelong love of reading and education. Your encouragement and support mean the world to your child. Children can become confident readers with the correct resources, practice, and patience. Make time for reading every day. The time before bed is ideal for a peaceful and comfortable story time. Please check out Triangle Learning Center’s Blog for more early childhood tips and information.
Sources-
-https://downloads.aap.org/AAP/PDF/