Reading Aloud to Your Child: Part I (Do's)

When teachers read aloud to their children, they often begin with a brief introduction and discussion of the book or text to be read aloud. You can do the same thing at home. Reading-aloud helps your child focus and know what to expect and look for during the story or poem. Below are some suggestions while reading aloud to your child based on The New Read-Aloud Handbook, by J. Trealease:

Do's

1. Do begin reading to children as early in their lives as they can support to sit and listen.

2. Do use rhymes, raps, songs chants, poetry, and pictures to stimulate their oral language.

3. Do read aloud to children at least 10-15 minutes daily, more often if possible.

4. Do set aside a time for daily reading aloud at home.

5. Do read picture books to children of all ages, but also gradually move to reading longer books without pictures was well.

6. Do vary the topics and types of books you read-aloud.

7. Do read aloud books to your child that stretch their intellectual and oral development.

8. Do read aloud with expression and enthusiasm.

9. Do add another dimension to reading something, such as using hand movements, puppets, or dressing up in costume.

10. Do carry a book with you at all times t o model your love for books and reading.