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Raising a ReaderWhat Books DoWhat does a child learn from the experience of reading? Research overwhelmingly indicates that your child’s language and intellectual development benefit when you read with your child. But equally important is the close relationship the two of you build through reading together, and the life-long love of reading that this relationship encourages. Children come to love reading, not just because they find books interesting, but because it is a joyful, shared experience with you. They make the connection between reading and being close to you, and that connection makes them want to read more. The more they read, the more likely they are to pick up language and communication skills. They also gain an understanding of how the world around them works, how to express feelings and how to master life's challenges. Exploration is one of the main ways children learn about the world around them, and books provide a wonderful opportunity for curiosity. When you add books to their daily lives, a whole new world is open to them. As they hear a story, they wonder what will happen next, and they begin to understand that the words on the page are building a picture in their mind. The Gift of Reading TogetherThe joy of sharing books is a gift you can give children from the time they are born. Chanting nursery rhymes, singing songs, and reading stories can comfort and entertain even the youngest child. What We Know About Early Language and Literacy DevelopmentKnown as "early literacy" development, language, reading and writing skills develop at the same time and are intimately linked. These skills develop in real life settings through positive interactions with books, paper and crayons and a child’s “important adults.” Early literacy is what children know about reading before they can actually read. Early Literacy Does Not Mean Early ReadingEarly literacy does not advocate "the teaching of reading" to younger and younger children. Formal instruction, which pushes infants and toddlers to achieve adult models of literacy (i.e., the actual reading and writing of words) is not developmentally appropriate. What Early Literacy Does Advocate“Early literacy” emphasizes the natural unfolding of skills through the enjoyment of books, the importance of positive interactions between young children and adults, and the critical role of literacy-rich experiences. Where to StartBooks that we like as adults are about things that capture our imagination --whether it's the thrill of a mystery or a documentary from history. It is the same for babies and toddlers--they like books about things that they find interesting. Just “Let It Happen!”There is no "right" way to read with your baby, just be sure your child is engaged and having fun. Your child may want to read the same books over and over again. Let your child be in control of selecting what to read and turning the pages; together, you’ll have a wonderful time. Children model what they see adults and other children do. Children become interested in reading because they see “important people in their lives” using and enjoying books and other reading materials. Since play is the main way young children explore and try out their new skills, you may see your toddler playing with a book or even pretending to read--perhaps imitating you. If your toddler is speaking, you may even hear her imitate the words and intonation you use with the story--even though she doesn't know the words on the page. It makes no difference if the book is upside-down, when your child models your reading through play. Although she may not know what the letters mean just yet, she is practicing and learning the behaviors and skills that go with reading--and discovering that reading is pleasurable and useful. She begins to feel like a reader long before she is, and this sense of competence likely motivates her desire to learn to read. Tips for Raising a ReaderBegin when your child is born and spend time reading every day. For book suggestions, ask a staff member in the Children's Department. |
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LaSalle Public Library |