Books can open new worlds to your child and there will be so many things they will learn through this. They will also learn to be kind and compassionate individuals who have an appreciation for all the beauty and diversity of the world.
It is always a good idea
To start early when getting your child to develop a passion for the written word. You can even read to them when you are in the womb. This will be a great way for you to release some stress and it will help you create a connection with the new life that you are carrying. And you can read these same books to them even when they are a newborn. They will be soothed by the sound of your voice even when they don’t understand the words. But when they get a little older, they will start to see the colours and concentrate on the illustrations in the book. You can select books that will engage their mind such as interactive books where you have pop-up figures and textures that they can touch and feel. This will allow them to have a more hands-on experience with the story and they will learn what single words and sounds mean. And little by little, they will understand and follow the story even if they are not able to read the words.
Keep books in a visible location that is easy for them to access.
This can encourage your child to open the books and look at them even when you are not reading to them. And even when they don’t understand the words, it is a good thing to read the book aloud so that they can become more familiar with the words and develop a positive impression with reading. They will associate the closeness and emotional connection that develops with you when you are both engaged in reading and this can be a cherished moment for them in the future as well. You can also take them to book fairs and select books together. This can be an adventure for them and they will love to be involved in choosing their next book.
You need to be animated when reading books so that your child is entertained throughout the story.
You can use different voices and change your facial expressions when you read out loud so that it is easier for them to follow the story and keep their attention. You can also use props such as soft toys and finger puppets to make the story more interesting. This will also prompt your child to make up their own story and act it out using the puppets. Always incorporate reading into your child’s daily routine whether you are reading a book at mealtime, bedtime etc. This will help make it a part of your child’s life. When your child is old enough to develop interests, they can choose the book so that they have a sense of freedom about what they are reading.
