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Tips For Reading With Your Child

Read to your child and have a conversation about the book.
 
Share with your children the joy of reading / let them see you reading.
 
After listening to your child read, comment on what he/she is doing well.
 
Don’t fix every mistake that your child makes when reading.  Choose just one or two tricky parts and talk about how you might try to figure out that word or sentence.

Make sure that your child understands that reading is meaningful and should always make sense.

If your child shows signs of frustration when you are trying to help, just tell him/her the word.
 
Help your child find "just right" books to read independently.
 

Tips for Reading Aloud

Reading aloud to your children is the number one suggestion from reading experts!  It helps children gain a desire to read!  Whether your child is already reading or just beginning, now is the perfect time to start reading aloud to them regularly. 

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your time together.

Encourage Participation
If there's repetition in a story, challenge your kids to repeat the key phrases with you.  Take turns saying the lines in a dramatic or silly voice.  Or stop occasionally and ask if anyone can predict  what will happen next.

Get Comfortable
Offer your children soft mats or pillows to sit on.  Give them blankets to snuggle up in on cold days, or sit near a cool breeze when the weather is warm.  Let them have a snack or drink before you start.

Remove Distractions
Make your reading spot as quiet as possible so your youngsters can focus on the story.  Consider turning off the television and ignoring the phone to avoid interruptions.

Keep it Appropriate
If your kids have trouble following the language or plot of a story, it may be too difficult for them.  Look for books that are closer to their reading levels.  Tip:  Ask a librarian or your children's teacher for suggestions.

 

 

 

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