How to Share A Story With A Young Child

We know that children become prepared for early reading by hearing quality children's stories. If you want to boost your child's reading readiness, share a story with him. Here's how to pick a good book and share it with a preschooler.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. PICK AN APPROPRIATE BOOK.
   
   For preschoolers, two to three lines of print are optimal. Repeated story lines are great, as children learn the words and can help you "read" the story. Some great children's books include: "If You Give A Mouse A Cookie", "The Very Hungry Caterpillar", and "Goodnight Moon". Books that have been awarded the Newberry Award are the best works of children's literature. Look for the round medal on the book's cover. Newberry Honor books are the runners up to the award and are also excellent selections.

2. CUDDLE UP AND RELAX TOGETHER.
   
   Bedtime is a great time for a story, but anytime will do. Sit on the couch with a blanket or even under a tree together and just spend quality time together.

3. READ WITH DRAMATIC VOICE.
   
   Changing your voice with each character is fun and exciting for your child. You'll make the story come alive and mesmerize your little one. Your child can help provide sound effects if she wants.

4. ASK YOUR CHILD QUESTIONS.
   
   Ask questions related to the story, but not just yes and no questions. Use open-ended questions that facilitate discussions about the story. This will boost memory skills and further understanding of the topic.

5. PREPARE TO REPEAT.
   
   Be willing to reread the story over and over. Toddlers and preschoolers learn through repitition. Favorite stories will bring requests to repeat them over and over and over and.........

Tips & Warnings

• Make reading a daily habit in your home.
• Visit the library weekly and let your child pick up several books.

[GreenMomma]

on 12/1/2008 A dramatic voice is a must have for story telling or the child gets bored! Great article, love it!!!! We should all be promoting this information. So few children have the luxury of a parent reading to them at night.

[meacham01]

on 11/3/2008 I love this! You are absolutely correct with your instructions. I do this with my grandson and his eyes light up when it is reading time. Great article.

[archip99]

on 10/21/2008 I will definitely remember your advices when my son is ready for story telling. Thanks for such great advices.

[taskeinc]

on 10/21/2008 These are some great tips and is what I used to do .. my kids are 12 & 14 now so the bedtime stories are a thing of the past.