One of the best ways to help your child’s language and comprehension skills is to read to them. This will prepare them for preschool, expand their vocabulary, and help them develop their social skills. If you’re unsure how to go about this process, follow the guidelines below.

Why Is Reading Aloud Important?

Besides the enjoyment you will both receive from the activity and the opportunity to spend quiet time together, there are a number of cognitive benefits to reading aloud to a child. As they listen to and follow along with a book, they learn to associate words and sounds with pictures. This will develop their vocabulary and language skills. Reading aloud stimulates your little one’s imagination, develops their listening ability, and prepares them to speak, read, and write. After a few months, they may become more comfortable with the rhythm and flow of language.

What Are Some Tips for Reading to Your Toddler?

Very young children can begin to interact with a story and images on a page. At this young age, it might be difficult to hold their attention for a long period of time, so aim for 10 to 15 minutes. If your child is anywhere from a few months to 3 years old, they should respond well to your voice and an animated story. Clearly pronounce your words to engage the interest of the child, and point out the pictures that go with the words. Speak slowly and in a medium-pitched voice. Read for as long as the child stays interested and is engaged. As your child ages, they will be able to follow along for longer than 15 minutes. 

How Should You Read to Preschool-Aged Children?

Make the storytime you share with your preschooler special. Consider creating a set time to read each day, such as before bed or nap time. Offer trips to the library or a local bookstore to let them choose their own material. You can also begin to add in some fun learning books about alphabet basics, simple addition, and animals. Be flexible with a child’s preference to hear the same story over and over. This can be useful when it comes to memorization and retention.

Take some time to point out how reading works and simple punctuation. Let the child tell the story if they are familiar with it. Ask questions as you go along, such as “What do you think will happen?” and be tolerant of their questions in return. Find out what your child is learning in preschool and incorporate the information into reading time. 

Reading aloud is a wonderful way to bond with your child and help them learn. If your little one is ready for preschool, consider the Lov-In Hands Daycare, Inc in Queens, NY. They offer Pre-K reading, writing, and math skills taught by licensed teachers. Their warm and safe facility offers three meals a day or an after-school program for older children. Accepting ages three weeks to 5 years old, they offer affordable, competent, and compassionate childcare. Call (718) 723-0324 for more information or visit their website for more information.