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| Reading and Children
 The joy of books and reading is a gift you can give children from the time they are born.
- Helps create a special bond between parents and children
- Introduces children to art through illustrations
- Enhances children's listening skills
- Introduces children to a wide variety of experiences
- Helps prepare children for learning to read
- Improves and enriches the quality of children's lives
- Provides fun and enjoyment for children and adults
- Begin when child is born
- Set aside a special time each day, such as nap time, bedtime or after meals
- Share books when you and your child are in a relaxed mood
- Limit sharing time if your child becomes fussy or restless
- Take advantage of "waiting times" - for example, on trips, at the doctor's office or at the garage.
- Soothe a child who is sick or cranky with reading or storytelling
- Find a comfortable place to sit - a rocking chair is wonderful
- Recite or sing rhymes from your favorite books
- Turn off other distractions, like television, radio or stereo
- Hold the book so the child can see the pages clearly
- Involve your child by having him/her point out objects, talk about the pictures or repeat common words
- Read with expression
- Vary the pace of your reading - slower or faster as appropriate
- Have your child select books to read
- Reread your child's favorite book whenever asked
- Be enthusiastic about books.
- Set an example - let your children see you read books too!
- Keep a wide selection of reading materials at home.
- Give books as presents to begin to build a home library.
- Use your local library regularly.
From the American Library Association's "Born to Read: How to Raise a Reader," 1996 |
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