Reading to our kids is a good thing – but did you know there are specific advantages your toddler or preschool-age child can receive by being exposed to it on a consistent basis? As a parent, you have the power to boost your children’s learning potential simply by making books an integral part of their lives.
Reading together as a family is easier than you think! Leslie Coleman, director of training at Kiddie Academy, talks about the importance of starting early and shares how to make the most out of reading to your little bookworms:
A foundation for future learning success. “The skills children gain while being read to set them up for future successes in other academic areas,” says Coleman.Reading books about a wide variety of topics, both fiction and nonfiction, and reinforcing that reading is a way to gather information as well as entertainment.
The knowledge of how reading works. Point out the author and illustrator at the beginning and end of a story and draw your kid’s attention to the words on the page. “Left to right, top to bottom, front to back. These are just a few ways your children will grasp the concept of reading,” adds Coleman.Don’t forget to model holding books right-side-up!
The development of speech and language skills. Learning the pronunciations of words, sounds and vocabulary are just the beginning of what your children learn while reading. Coleman suggests reading slowly, using a clear voice and including books with poems, nursery rhymes and repeating phrases.
Strong communication skills. Retelling stories and predicting the endings are part of the fun for kids, while also serving as a confidence booster.Build in time for questions and answers.
A love of learning and seeking knowledge. Reading books should be fun! “Don’t be afraid to get silly and use character voices when reading to your kids,” says Coleman. “When you’re enthusiastic and energetic everyone has a good time.”
At Kiddie Academy, reading together is an essential part of preparing children for school and for life. This approach is enhanced with a focus on character development.
For more information about Kiddie Academy, please visit kiddieacademy.com.
