How to Read Aloud So Children Will Love Books

Creating a love of books is no easy task, but it can be done. All you need is the confidence to read aloud, the willingness to explore new books and the commitment to your child. There are no age restrictions for reading to a child; from a newborn to a teen, there is a comfort in being read to by a loved one. Follow these guidelines and you will learn how to read aloud so children will grow up to love books.

Instructions

1. Become comfortable with reading aloud. Practice to yourself by reading emails, newspapers, directions and other everyday things aloud.

2. Remember that punctuation has meaning. Stop at a period, sound excited at an exclamation point. Raise the intonation of your voice at the end of a question.

3. Read slow enough and with emotion in your voice so that your audience will be captivated. Kids will tune you out if you are reading to quickly or with no excitement in your voice.

4. Allow for the kids to move and play while you read. Listening skills are not directly linked to sitting skills.

5. Pick a variety of books and other reading materials from the library or around your home. Choose from biographies, fantasy, chapter books, fact books or magazines. After all, you are reading to the child, not the other way around. Reading aloud above your child's level is a great way to increase a child's vocabulary.

6. Read aloud daily at a set time, such as before nap or bedtime. Bring books to read during idle moments with your child, such as waiting in the car to pick up a sibling or sitting at the doctors.

7. Take cues from your child. Allow them to ask questions and make comments, but more importantly respond to their questions and comments. Continue reading books which obviously interest your child and put down books that your child does not like.

Tips & Warnings

• Read aloud to your child no matter their age.

• Although your child may be learning to read or has already mastered the skill, reading aloud is not a time for you to quiz them. Relax and enjoy the story together.

• Try graphic novels and books based on movies or TV shows to spark interest.