Reading and Your Toddler

We all know that books are a great source of education for children. Reading to your child, and looking at books is something that should be done whenever possible. Reading to a child that can't talk, or says few words can be very beneficial to your child. The constant sound of words helps children think about how words are pronounced, and use their imagination through the stories they are told.

You may think that reading the same story over and over to your child is boring. However, your child doesn't think it's boring, the repetitiveness of the same story adds to a better understanding of words and phrases. You may not think so now, but reading will also help develop writing skills when it comes time for your child to write. You can also take things a step further by learning outdoors too. Both you and your toddler can look at road signs, or signs in the grocery store, or on food items. This way your toddler is constantly learning to read all the time, and they will have an advantage when they can talk, read, and write.

Encourage your child to read with you even if they can't talk. Miss out a word, and wait for your child to say the word. Maybe they won't or can't say the word today, but it will surprise you how quickly they will learn this way. Ask questions, such as, why do you think that happened? This will keep reading fun for your child. Point to the words with your finger as you say them, to enable your toddler to see which words you are saying as they are being said. Start off with simple story books, rhyming books, ABC, and number books.

Not only does your child learn to read, write, and communicate in general through reading to them, but they also learn to listen too. Setting a time aside throughout the day is also a good opportunity where you can spend time with your child. Just think how much your child will learn about different animals, shapes, colors, letters, and a whole host of other subjects by simply taking time out to read to them on a daily basis.

Sometimes toddlers are too active, they may not want to sit still to listen to a book being read to them. If your toddler wanders off continue to read they may still be listening. If it is impossible to finish a whole story then leave it, and finish the book, or story another day. Before bedtime, or nap time will probably be a good point to read as your child will be sleepy, and ready to rest. Allow your toddler to chose from a selection of books which one they would like you to read. Let them turn the pages. Ask them where specif objects are on the page. Get them involve in whatever way you can, make reading fun as well as educational for your child.