How to Read Aloud to Children

Reading aloud to children is so important in so many ways: helping develop language skills, instilling a love of books, improving their learning skills..plus it is a wonderful bonding experience between the reader and the listener, and just plain fun for everyone. But how do you know what and how to read to your child, or someone else's? Here are some helpful tips.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• books
• children
• a quiet space

1. Choose the right books. For infants, use books with simple black and white illustrations and rhymes or songs. Mother Goose is perfect. As children progress to toddler stage and beyond, choose books with bold colors, lots of repetition, and rhyme. Kids also like books with predictable story lines and endings. Gradually, move to books with less pictures and more text.

2. Try to read at the same time every day if possible. Read favorite stories often, and let the child or children supply key words in the story. Ask, "What happens next?" If you're continuing a book, ask, "What did we read yesterday?"

3. Pay attention to where you are reading. Don't read in front of windows or bright lights. Make sure you are all seated comfortably and that your head is slightly above their head so that they can see the book and hear you clearly.

4. Adjust your pace and tone of voice to fit the story. Don't read too fast. Don't be afraid to use different voices for different characters!

Tips & Warnings

• Using extra elements can really enhance storytelling. For instance, finger puppets can be used to act out the story, or you can bring in foods that are mentioned in the story, especially ones that are easy and not too messy, like apples or other fruits.
• Make sure you like the story you're reading Children will hear your enthusiasm!
• Let children see you reading, and make sure there are plenty of books, magazines and other reading material in your home.

Resources

• Reading and Storytime