Encouraging the JOY of Reading

Spending time with preschoolers is truly fun. Little kids are so incredibly excited about life and learning. They have few inhibitions, ask funny questions, and tell humorous stories. It’s always an adventure in a PreK classroom.

Usually, I work with parents and staff, but occasionally I’m invited to read to the children. Typically the teachers have chosen a topic relating to friendship or kindness. I. LOVE. IT. The more excited and animated I am with the story, the more the children actively listen with anticipation. They move closer with wide-eyes to take in all of the story.

Make books come alive for your children with these simple tips. 

• Pre-read the story with your child by looking at just the pictures.
• Read the title page, including the author and illustrator. Tell your child authors write the words and illustrators draw the pictures.
• Take on the attributes of the characters in the book. Read in a small, squeaky voice for a mouse or a low, loud voice for a bear.
• Accentuate punctuation with a rise in your voice for questions. A loud statement works well for exclamation points.
• Ask questions in a soft voice during the story to aid in understanding and retention.
• At the end of the story, discuss the moral of the story. What did the characters learn? How can your child apply the lesson to life?

“A children’s story that can only be enjoyed by children
is not a good children’s story in the slightest.”
C.S. Lewis

© 2019 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.

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