How to Raise a Reader (National Literacy Month)

November is National Literacy Month! It’s a great time to get into good habits to help your child develop a love of books, which builds bonds, supports early writing and reading skills, enhances vocabulary, and prepares children for school success. Here are some ideas on how to raise a reader:

• Talk, read aloud, and sing to your baby from birth. Communicating with your infant from the start helps your baby learn words and feel loved.
• Experts suggest reading aloud for a half hour each day to children, in any language. If you can’t set aside a half hour all at once, read a little at a time throughout the day.
• Reading almost anything out loud is good for children! Turning the pages of a magazine or viewing pictures on tablet and telling a “story” is a great way to start.
• Let your toddler turn book pages, and name the things you see in pictures.
• Ask your preschool child questions about what you read together. What would he or she do in the situation in the book? What is his or her favorite part? Favorite character? Why?
• Encourage your child to tell you a story about anything, from your pet to an imaginary trip into space! Together, create a “book” with illustrations.
• Check out your local library for books and lots more. From reading events to book suggestions, there is always something going on a to help raise your child to be a great reader. Visit KidsPath for more information.