Thursday, April 15, 2010

Family Reading Time

There are endless combinations possible for family reading. Parents read to children. Children read to parents. Grandparents read to children. Even an older sibling can read with your preschooler. But think out of the box. Have your preschooler read to his baby sister or brother. He will feel very grown up. No baby around? How about your family’s pet? Many dogs will welcome the petting and attention that accompanies your child’s rendition of his favorite story book. Try eavesdropping. You may be amused at your child’s interpretation of a book when he is the reader-in-charge.

2 comments:

  1. I'm not sure how many parents encourage their preschoolers to "read" books outloud. Many do it on their own. Some don't take the risk without encouragement. I hope many of your readers encourage a child to "read" a book today. It will build confidence in a young child, and it will be fun to watch. My daughter loves to read to our dog. http://beginningreadinghelp.blogspot.com/2010/02/my-daughters-path-to-reading.html

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  2. I think you are so right. It is important for parents to be flexible as well. No matter what words they say or story they tell as they "read," clearly it is a confidence-builder for young children.

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What I think . . .

There are all kinds of readers. Some—like my daughter and me—are never without a book to read for pleasure. Others—like my son—are careful, analytical, and curious readers who read primarily to seek information from the page.


No matter what kind of reader your child becomes, you can help him or her get started. After all, you are your child’s first teacher. And, best of all, you can have some fun in the process.


Please feel free to share your own ideas. Tell me about ways you've enjoyed reading with your child.


Madeline Boskey, Ph.D.