Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Listen to Books


Some children actually learn better by listening than by looking at something. It is just the way they learn. While a parent’s familiar voice is irreplaceable, hearing the words read by an actor or actress can bring a story to life in a different way. Your public library may have books on CDs that that you can borrow. Try out new books this way or enjoy listening to familiar books on audio. Listening to a book on tape in the car can also make the ride a more pleasant experience for all.


Wednesday, September 7, 2011

International Reading Day

September 8 is the United Nations' International Literacy Day. It is a global observance that focuses attention on literacy needs worldwide.  Did you know that more than 780 million of the world’s adults (nearly two-thirds of whom are women) do not know how to read or write? Or that between 94 and 115 million children lack access to education?

If you cannot participate in a literacy event in your community to observe the day, spend some time talking with your preschooler about the importance of reading. Better yet, spend some extra time reading together.

Sunday, September 4, 2011

Preschool Jitters?

Many young children need time to get used to new experiences. If your child is about to start in preschool for the first time, here are a few books that might help you prepare your child and start the conversation about the exciting new experience in his future.


Francine's Day by Anna Alter

This book is a nice starting point for addressing any of your child's mixed feelings about starting preschool.


Little Bunny’s Preschool Countdown by Maribeth Boeltz

Reading this story is a good opening for talking about growing up and changes, including starting school.


My First Day at Nursery School by Becky Edwards
Reading this book will give your child an opportunity to talk about the many kinds of feelings that he might have about starting school.

What to Expect at Preschool by Heidi Murkoff

This book predicts some question that children might have before they begin school--and gives good answers.

Tinyflock Nursery School by Suzy-Jane Tanner

This book might be an ideal choice if your child has already expressed some specific fears about starting school.

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.