ABC's of Reading For Parents

Ask questions while reading together.

Buy books as gifts for birthdays or other holidays.

Chat about what is happening in the book & how it relates to everyday life.

Drop everything and read as a family for at least 20 minutes each day.

Examine book illustrations in detail. Select books with large, bright pictures.

Find books that interest your child. Make suggestions, but don't turn reading into work.

Give hints when your child gets stuck on a word.

Have fun. Smile and enjoy the story. Read with a slow, relaxed voice & be expressive.

Invite your child to the bookstore. Take time to lounge & browse the books.

Join in your child's reading successes. Celebrate every small step with sincere praise.

Kids love to receive mail. Get your child a magazine subscription in an area that interests him/her.

Learn to read with, and not just to, your child. Read aloud, share ideas, & answer questions.

Model reading. Share with your child whether you are reading for information or entertainment.

Never force your child to read. If you are both too tired or discouraged, take a break.

Offer your child a variety of reading materials such as books, magazines, cereal boxes, comics, and newspapers.

Predict story elements, draw conclusions, and retell the story with your child.

Quiz your child at the end of the story. Informally, of course!

Reread books to familiarize your child with words, gain fluency, and build self-confidence.

Sing songs, recite poetry, & do finger plays to help develop language and listening skills.

Try to help your child understand that it's okay to make mistakes.

Understand that reading is developmental & it takes time & practice to become fluent.

Visit your local library on a regular basis. Sign your child up for his/her own library card.

Welcome wordless picture books. They generate conversation & allow the nonreader to create his/her own stories.

"Xhibit" patience when your child is selecting books. Your support is empowering.

You are the most important person in helping your child develop a lifelong love of reading.

Zealous readers are the result of supportive & nurturing role models.

~Unknown Author~