Reading aloud builds nurturing relationships, stimulates brain growth, and encourages language skills. Children who have someone read to them every day when they are very young learn to speak, read, and write more easily. Sharing stories can be lots of fun and introduces children to new words and sounds. It’s never too early (or too late) to start!
Here’s a few simple tips to get you started!
Snuggle up
Hold your baby or position yourself close, so your baby can see your face and the book.
Follow their lead
You don’t have to read the words. Describe the pictures, ask questions, wonder, and imagine together. Keep books within your child’s reach and allow them to help you turn the pages.
Read it again
Read your child’s favourites often. Children love repetition – and it helps them learn! The more they hear the new words discovered in a book, the sooner they will understand their meaning.
Read regularly
Aim for 15 minutes a day. Try 5 minutes in the morning, in the afternoon and at bedtime. It all counts! Start small and build up as reading becomes part of your regular routine.
Use your home language
Always use the language you are most comfortable with. The more you read, the more the child’s language will grow. You could make up the story using the picture from an English book, or read books written in a language you are fluent in.
Have fun
Use different voices and facial expressions, change the tone as you read – be playful! Books are as much toys as anything else, have fun with them!
Visit the library
Join – it’s free! Spend time choosing books, reading together or join a free Storytime session and experience the joy of books with other families!
View our Read Info Sheet here.