The best way to help your child become a good reader is to . . . READ to your child regularly
. . . Listen to your child READ
. . . Talk about what you READ
. . . Model good READing habits for your child
You are encouraged to read with your child at least ten minutes a day. Reading together should be an enjoyable experience for you and your child. Have fun!
Before Reading
Talk about the cover, title, and pictures.
Ask your child to predict what might happen in the story.
Discuss why you are reading this book.
During Reading
Read with expression.
Ask your child how a particular character feels.
Stop reading to ask what might happen next or how the story might end.
Take turns reading lines or pages. Allow your child to read the last line or page to get a sense of completion.
Listen while your child reads to you.
After Reading
Talk about the story characters, events, and setting.
Discuss how your child's experiences connect to the story.
Have your child retell the story in his or her own words.