Posted on 28th May 2010 @ 3:47 PM

Make reading fun for children. Research consistently shows that reading to children can be a rewarding experience. More to the point, children love it and derive a whole new experience of different language structures and exposure to rhythms and sounds not normally heard in general conversation.

What to read to babied toddlers and young children

• ·      pre-school children who are exposed to plenty of language (books and conversation)      tend to do better at school

• ·      reading teaches many topics which wouldn't come up in conversation

However, reading must be fun – lots of fun - not hard work. If reading isn’t fun, children won’t do it. And if your child doesn’t enjoy it he/she will think they are not good at it.

Even for very young children just reading allows the baby to enjoy the sound of your voice and hear the rhythms of different types of language, even though your child will not have an understanding of what you are talking about.

Reading to babies and toddlers

Babies and toddlers benefit hugely. The effort of focusing on pictures develops eye muscles. Each time a baby hears a particular word, it imprints more strongly in his/her brain.

Each time your baby sees, hears, or feels anything, brain connections form. Eventually, the connections are strong enough to create a skill or a piece of knowledge 

Some simple steps - sometimes forgotten

Fiction or none fiction? It really doesn’t matter. It’s the interest element and your enthusiasm for the story and content.

Be comfortable, cosy and relaxed - both of you. On the other hand, hearing a story can be very calming for a child who is in 'one of those moods'.

Make sure your child can see the book the right way up as you read.

Read very slowly - that's better for your child anyway as he/she will be able to hear the words more clearly. When you read it should sound too slow in your own head.

Up to 2 years old

• point at pictures and say or ask names of things (depending on age)
• use a slow sing-song voice
• be entertaining – try using different voices for each character
• talk about pictures – shapes, colour, expressions, clothes etc.
• give lots of praise each time your child points at and/or names an object

2-4 years old

• allow your child to look at the pictures before starting to read
• follow the text with your finger as you read
• ask questions and discuss – “Where is the …?” “What’s this …?” “How many …?”

and finally …..

Choose a variety of different types of language. Include traditional stories, poetry and general everyday stories. Include books that your child really likes – for whatever reason.

And when your child is watching TV/DVD’s (hopefully not too often!) switch on subtitles. Studies have shown this aids early readers word recognition.

Remember, our lives revolve around the written word. We have to read signs, labels, advertising etc. So at home, while shopping, driving and in the supermarket, point out, discuss and generally comment on the written word.

But don’t forget to include a good book!