Make time to read together each day. Choose a time when you can be relaxed and not
rushed. Give yourself time to read
slowly so that your child can enjoy and absorb the story. Be sure to let them ask questions as you
read. You may also want to ask your
child questions. This helps you check
their understanding of the story and encourages memory development.
When you read together often, you learn about the
types of books a child likes and understands. Look for books that relate to
what’s happening in the child’s life at the time.
Babies & Toddlers – Very young children are attracted to brightly
colored pictures of simple objects. They
are listeners and respond well to books with simple words and good
rhythms. Wordless books stimulate them
and encourage creating different stories.
Board and cloth books are durable and enjoyable at this age.
Pre-school and Kindergarten – These children like listening to slightly complex
text with good rhythm and word repetition.
They enjoy toy-like books that may pop-up, move
or get them involved. Mother Goose,
nursery rhymes, and stories about familiar objects and experiences appeal to
this age.
Early School Years (Ages 5-8) – Picture books with strong story lines and
characters are good for this age. For
the child who can read independently, choose a book with a straightforward
story that uses familiar words they use everyday.
Older Children (Ages 9-12 and older) – Reading skills will allow most children to read
independently. Select books that fit the child’s personality, preferences, and
interests. Informational, non-fiction
books as well as novels about a topic may be enjoyable. Look for whether they are appropriate for the
child’s age and maturity level.
Help children be ready to read and learn by:
1. Reading to your baby every day. Hearing words over and over helps your child
become familiar with them.
2. Using sounds, songs, gestures, and words that rhyme to
help your baby learn about language and its many uses.
3. Pointing out the printed words in your home and other
places you take your child, such as the grocery store.
4. Taking children’s books and writing materials with you
whenever you leave home.
5. Creating a quiet, special place in your home for your
child to read, write and draw.
6. Setting a good example for your child by reading
books, newspapers and magazines.
7. Limiting the amount and type of television you and
your child watch.
8. Make regular visits to the library and pick out books
together or attend special reading events.
The time and attention you give your child has many
benefits in addition to helping him be ready for school.
Take advantage of parent-teacher conferences during
the school year. Think of some questions
and concerns you may have and write them down before your meeting. Keep track of your child’s schoolwork to be
aware of their progress or difficulties, and make notes for your next
conference. Questions you may want to
ask are:
·
Is my child
performing at grade level or developmental age?
·
What are my
child’s strengths and weaknesses in subjects such as reading, math and science?
·
How much time
should my child spend on homework?
·
Are my child’s assignments
completed accurately and on time?
·
How has my child
been behaving in class and with other children?
·
Does my child
have special learning needs? Are there
special classes my child should be in?
·
What can I do to
help my child succeed in school?
·
Can the teacher
review with me other work my child has done?
Prepared by:
Debbie
Richardson
Child
Development Assistant Specialist
Cooperative
Extension Service
104
HES
(405)
744-6231
dlricha@okstate.edu