Early literacy and prereading skills are important school readiness goals. Children who have been read to regularly are more likely to be successful in school. Encouraging a love of reading and books can be fun and rewarding for you and your child.
Choose the right books for your child — babies like simple, sturdy board books with lots of pictures and few words. Rhyme and rhythm help your child learn to establish patterns in language.
Get comfy — choose a reading corner in your child’s room or other comfortable space where you can sit with your child on your lap while you share books
Expand your reading beyond the page — talk with your child about what you see in the pictures and how it relates to things in your everyday life
Get into it — try out your silly voices
Make it a habit — incorporate reading into your everyday routines; before you know it, you’ll both be hooked!
Have you loved your library today?
If you live in Richland County, you definitely should. Richland Library (https://richlandlibrary.com) is an incredible place for children. With dozens of storytimes at branches throughout the county every month, one of the nation’s largest children’s rooms at the Main Library, and library cards available for residents of all ages (https://www.richlandlibrary.com/librarycard), the library is your best resource for raising a reader.