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The time you spend reading aloud with your child is precious. Reading to your preschooler expands their vocabulary and teaches them about the world around them. It also shapes their attitude about reading. If they look forward to reading time with you every day, they will be more excited to learn how to read independently. Here are four tips to help your little one look forward to reading time.
1. Get Cozy With a Book Together
What children love most about reading time when they are little is getting quality time with you. Children crave snuggles and your undivided attention. Reading together is an excellent opportunity for both. Bedtime is the most popular time to incorporate reading into your day because it’s a great time to snuggle your child and unwind together with a book. Kids love getting to stay up for a few more minutes cuddled up with you. Even if you read to your child another time, make it a cozy experience where they sit close to you and receive your undivided attention.
2. Choose Books They Like
Kids can have big opinions about everything from the clothes they wear to the books you read them. If your little one isn’t a fan of reading time, the problem may be what you are reading. Young children often enjoy books that are interactive and have a tactile element. Some kids prefer books about animals while other kids like books about bugs or children like them. Pay attention to what interests your little one. Choose books for your library that appeal to them. If you can tell your child doesn’t like a book you are reading, set it down and find a new one.
3. Give Them Choices
There are very few things that children can control. This can be hard on kids, especially during their toddler and preschool years when they are becoming more independent. Letting your child make choices about what they want to eat and what books they want you to read will give them a sense of control. It can make this difficult transition time easier for you and them. Summer is a great time to visit your local library. Taking them to the library and letting them choose a few books from the children’s section can be a nice treat.
4. Make it a Conversation
Reading time can spark great conversations with your kid. Books can bring up interesting questions and teach them valuable lessons. Try not to rush through reading time. Instead, lean into the interactive aspect of reading aloud. Let your little one turn the pages, pause to explain new words, answer their questions happily and ask some of your own questions. These meaningful conversations will leave a lasting impression on your little one.
We hope that these four tips help you create a reading routine you and your child look forward to every day. If you are looking for new books for your preschooler to enjoy, check out children’s books that have won the Caldecott Medal for illustration or the Newbery Medal for writing. Or ask your local librarian or your child’s preschool for books they recommend. Our childcare teachers at Kids ‘R Kids Avalon Park are always happy to share with parents books that make kids light up.