Contact KN | NHPTV Home | Search
New Hampshire Public Television Knowledge Network

Reading and Children

The joy of books and reading is a gift you can give children from the time they are born.

Sharing Books

  • 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

When to Share Books

  • 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

How to Share Books

  • 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

Additional Tips

  • 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

 
Program Highlight

WordGirl

Sid the Science Kid

Airs M-F from 8-8:30 p.m.
2/1 Super Science Tools (Show 105)
Sid learns that his ruler, estimation jar, chart and magnifying glass are amazing in their own way.  

Untitled Document



Support for NHPTV's Ready to Learn comes from:
Lincoln Financial      Lincoln Financial


Privacy | Pressroom

New Hampshire Public Television
268 Mast Road, Durham, NH 03824. 603-868-1100 Fax 603-868-7552
Contact NHPTV
©2010 All rights reserved