Why Read?
Early Literacy
Early literacy is a term we hear around a lot now – what does it really mean?
Early literacy refers to the skills a child learns about reading and writing before they can actually read and write. For example, long before a child can read or write they know that there is a right way up to hold a book, they understand that you read a page from top to bottom and from left to right, they know how to turn pages and can anticipate and predict what will happen next in a story. Well before a child can read words, they understand that print has meaning. Children also learn words that are part of literacy and reading, for example, book, cover, picture, word, etc. They make connections between illustrations and words and develop early word and letter recognition.
These are all essential early literacy skills that a child needs to learn to read and write. The earlier you begin to read to your child, the better their language and early literacy skills are.
Sharing Books With Your Child
Stories, rhymes and songs provide a baby's first introduction to language. Stories are for sharing - reading and sharing books with your child is one of the greatest gifts you can give them and it will create a very special bond between you and your child.
Everyone can share stories and books with children –
it's fun and
you can share stories together anytime, anywhere!
When you begin sharing rhymes and stories with your child remember that:
- Children learn best by doing and experiencing things. By sharing books and stories everyday, your baby will learn to love and look forward to these things.
- Each child is different and as a parent, you know your child best. Plan activities and stories at times that are best for you and your child and do these in ways that you both enjoy!
- Parents are a child’s most important role model – when your child sees you reading and enjoying books they will want to do this too.
- Young children have very short attention spans so doing a variety of activities for short periods throughout the day is the best and most enjoyable way to entertain and teach young children
Ask at your local library for great read-a-loud books to share with your child.
Reading To Your Child Is Easy – There’s No Right Or Wrong Way To Do It!
Don't worry if you think you may not be good at reading to children – everyone can do it! Children will enjoy listening to the sound of your voice and if you find reading a story difficult, try asking your child questions about what is happening in the story or talk about the pictures. Children will enjoy the opportunity to use their imagination - ask "What do you think is going to happen" or look at a picture and ask "Who's this, what's he doing". Once you've read a couple of stories you'll find that it gets easier – in fact so much easier that you'll find yourself enjoying it. Then you can really go for it! Put some action in your voice and use funny voices and expressions, your child will join in and you will both have a wonderful time!
Tips For Sharing Books With Your Child:
- Pick the best time. Choose a time to read when you and your baby are happy and content and can enjoy this special time together. Any time when your baby is settled but not sleepy or tired is perfect.
- Show your baby the book. Talk and read in a cheerful voice, point to the pictures as you read and talk about them (do this even with tiny babies). Talk about the pictures in the book. This adds to a baby’s vocabulary and shows them how conversation works back and forth. It won’t be long before your baby will be a real chatterbox! As well, you are teaching your child about the concept of words and pictures as well as how a book works (i.e from left to right, from top to bottom, turning pages, etc.)
- Have Fun! Sharing books together creates a special bond between parents and children. If your baby likes to be cuddled, snuggle up and read or make a nest on the floor with a blanket and pillows for you and your baby to sit on and share books together. A big, comfortable chair or, of course, beds are great places as well.
- Be aware of what your baby wants. Don't worry if you baby is restless and is not interested in the book – stop if they are upset. Babies like to play with books and this includes chewing and throwing them and treating them like a toy. This is fine, it’s all part of learning to read. Keep trying! gently take the book from your baby and start turning the pages saying “lets see what’s in the book”. Try sharing a rhyme for a change of pace. These are short and your child can join in with actions as well as words. Very soon you will notice that your baby will be happy to spend more time looking at books.
- Read aloud with your child every day. Reading every day, even if it’s for a few minutes will get your baby interested in books. Keep the reading experience fun. If your child does not want to listen stop and try again later. Active babies and toddlers may not sit still for long. Finish when they get restless and have another short reading session later in the day. Choose books that you and your child enjoy. If your child chooses the same old favourite over and over again, this may be boring for you but it will please your child and they may even begin to recognise some words. Take books with you when you go out. You might have to wait somewhere and have a few spare moments to read.