How To Read To My Child

Talking out loud to your child is one of the most beneficial activities you can do with them whilst they grow up. Studies have shown that by 3 years old, a child who is frequently spoken to and who are involved in conversations know 1,000 more words – that’s twice as many as a child who isn’t spoken to regularly. Reading with your child is a great way of introducing these new words and spending one-on-one time with your child. Reading also allows you to use language in a variety of fun ways such as singing and rhyming, which children find much more enjoyable and stimulating.

Reading doesn’t need to be associated with a chore or something that feels like work. Think of yours and your child’s story time as play time and something not only that will help your child’s development, but something you can both look forward to and enjoy. Although you may not associate books with play, many children’s books are full of onomatopoeias, actions and expressions, which are all ingredients for an exciting play time! Emphasise sounds, over exaggerate facial expressions and amplify your actions. Use your imagination and have some fun with your reading.

Reading only every now and then isn’t enough. You must ensure to frequently read with your child in order for them to reap the benefits. Research shows that little and often is key. So don’t worry if you can’t spend hours on reading each day, and if your child starts to get bored, tired or agitated then stop reading and come back to it the next day.

Reading only every now and then isn’t enough. You must ensure to frequently read with your child in order for them to reap the benefits. Research shows that little and often is key. So don’t worry if you can’t spend hours on reading each day, and if your child starts to get bored, tired or agitated then stop reading and come back to it the next day.

As we previously said, reading should be a fun activity for both you and your child. There are so many ways to very your story time and keep it interesting. If you’re not confident at reading to your child that’s ok. In fact, XX% of parents have said that they feel embarrassed when reading to their child. Remember to take your time and even practice before reading to your child. Here are some top tips on what to do and how to act whilst reading with your child:

1. Movement & sounds. Build on sounds effects
2. Ask your child questions – what is a swish?
3. Talk about issues brought up in stories
4. Facial expression – face should be alive
5. Don’t be afraid to adlib
6. Over exaggerate sounds and expressions
7. Gesture is important
8. Build suspense
9. Use props if able
10. Set the scene before going into the story. Make sure they’re focused