Don't Just Sit There...READ!

On my Facebook Page I posted a link for really great books to read to your children for Fall (Autumn) as many of our children often notice the change in weather. In addition to posting the books, I would also like to give some advice regarding Interactive Reading. As an educator, this is something I practice with my students about 2-3 times per day. Interactive Reading is exactly what the title implies: interacting while reading. You want your children to be involved in the reading when you read with them daily, (for at least 20 min) at home. Here are a few tips to assist you with making sure reading time is pleasant, engaging, and educational for both you and your child:

• Review the parts of a book before you read it: title, cover, spine, pages, text, author, illustrator, genre (fiction, non-fiction, comedy, fantasy, etc), and time (past or present)
• Read the book BEFORE you share it with your child- background information is vital
• Ask what they think the book may be about just from viewing the cover and the title
• Introduce the main character of the book and tell a bit about what occurs in the story
• Remember to pause and go with the flow of the writer (author) of the book. For example, if the book is serious, funny, adventurous, etc, use those tones and expressions to get the point across
• Ask open-ended (allows for their own input and responses) questions before, during, and after the reading of the book
• When children are responding to you, give them time to say what they need to say before interrupting them
• Be very expressive when reading. Remember, YOU are MODELING for them how to read
• Add props (if available) Lakeshore has so many great books with props (for an additional fee)
• Have fun and let loose a little. Don't be so reserved when reading; children love animated reading
• Try to read books that your children can relate to; books that carry meaning of prior knowledge and new knowledge are also vital
• Be sure to record areas your child is strong in and areas needing improving so that you can share with their teacher. This ensures your child has the best learning experience at home and school and you are working closely with their teacher to ensure their academic needs are being met

I hope these tips were helpful. Also remember that we want our children to take something away with them when we read with them. We want them to increase skills they already possess as well as acquire new skills. We want them to learn to think critically, comprehend what it is they are reading, and develop a love of reading. Happy Parenting!

Until we chat again...

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