Reading to children stimulates imagination, helps caregivers and children bond, and forms good habits. By reading together daily, you are establishing a routine that could last a lifetime!
The concept is simple, and the reward is priceless!
Does reading 1,000 books seem hard? Don't worry! You have plenty of time.
Multiple studies have shown that children who are well read are more likely to succeed in school, but it has also been shown that as many as one in five children have difficulties learning to read. You can help your child succeed!
+ Formal education does not begin until ages five or six.
+ Reading with your child is a bonding experience that will last a lifetime.
+ Making a point to read 1,000 books is a simple and manageable way to help create a lifetime of good habits.
+ Sign up by stopping by the preschool desk in the children's library. Our staff will be available to answer your questions and give you some prizes for signing up!
+ Log every book you read in our program booklet.
+ For every 100 books that you read to your child, come to the preschool desk to get a prize.
+ For every 500 books your child reads, they will receive a special prize.
+ Read 1,000 books with your child before they reach kindergarten.
+ Find a comfy place to read and snuggle up.
This will help your child feel safe and secure.
+ If you can, turn off all screens while you are reading.
Creating an environment with fewer distractions makes it easier for you both to have a fun time reading!
+ Encourage them to take part in the reading process.
Let your child help you turn the page! Ask them questions about the pictures and talk through the story as you read it.
+ Choose books that your child will like.
Baby and toddler friendly books usually have bright colors and bold words, and are often made of durable cardboard, soft material, or soft plastic so they can withstand a baby playing with them.
+ Develop a daily reading routine.
For example, always read before snack time or before your child takes a nap. Routines help young children feel secure because they are able to predict what will happen next.
+ If your child is not having fun, put the book down.
Reading should be fun! If your child is not in the mood for reading, do not be afraid to put the book down and try again later.
+ Ask your child to pick out the book that you will read to them.
This will get them more excited about reading time!
+ Most importantly, have fun!
There is no wrong way to read a book to your child! And have realistic expectations based on your child's age – your toddler's way of "listening" might be climbing all over you while you read!
Tips for reading to babies:
https://www.readingrockets.org/article/reading-tips-parents-babies
En español: https://www.readingrockets.org/content/pdfs/tips/Spanish-CC_tips_babies.pdf
Also available in nine additional languages at the link above.
Tips for reading to toddlers:
https://www.readingrockets.org/article/reading-tips-parents-toddlers
En español: https://www.readingrockets.org/content/pdfs/tips/Spanish-CC_tips_toddlers.pdf
Also available in nine additional languages at the link above.
Why does reading aloud matter?
https://www.readingrockets.org/reading-topics/reading-aloud
Reading recommendations:
https://www.readingrockets.org/books/booksbytheme
https://www.nypl.org/books-more/recommendations/125/kids
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