Language exposure plays a crucial part in helping kids do better in school. It helps them with communication and interpreting ideas. Language exposure can start as soon as a baby is born, through talking, singing, reading and writing.
Learning to read does not have to start at school. In fact, teaching your little one early on will help them considerably in the future. However, reading with a tiny one is not always easy.
Here we have our top 5 tips to get you started, to improve their reading, their interest in reading and keep them engaged.
1. Point To Words When Reading
Following the words with your finger when reading helps little ones see the connection between the words you're saying and the 'scribbles' on the page. This will also help them understand that the words on the page have meanings.
2. Read Alphabet Books
This may seem like an obvious one, but recognition of letters and learning their names and phonetic sounds is very important for when they start combining letter sounds to read complete words.
Finding alphabet/letter and number books that are touch and feel books are the best. Studies show that children learn much faster when multiple senses are involved. Follow up by playing with 3D letter toys or drawing letters and numbers in sand or through finger painting.
3. Read Expressively
Showing emotion like excitement and joy or sadness is a great way to keep toddlers involved in the story, especially for the really young ones who may not understand every word. This way, they can still follow along with the mood of the story and this will develop their interest in reading.
A good point to remember, however, is to still read slowly, at a pace they can follow along with, understand and comprehend what is happening; even when the story is exciting or action-packed!
4. Talk About the Pictures
Many parents often point to the pictures and say 'Wow, look at that' or 'Oh look, it's a dog' and move on. Why not speak more about the pictures? Toddlers will feel like they 'on the same page' as you, so to speak, as they'll understand the pictures much more than the words. They will also follow along with the story much more easily.
Finding picture books that have pictures of children doing day to day activities are great for this age group, too. Seeing other children doing what they do will help them use vocabulary they may already know and apply it to the story or use these words more often in everyday life.
5. Read Sing-Song Books
Sing-song books are great for this age group as many parents probably already know. I have yet to meet a child that doesn't like singing, or at least listening to songs! Many children pick up words and letters much faster with a song.
When singing along with these books, why not engage your child even more by encouraging them to sing along with the words or at least clap along so that they feel more involved? Who doesn't love a good party?
How do you keep your toddler engaged in reading? Leave your tips in the comments below or on our IG post!
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