At age 3, Sheetal could read and loved it. Her mother has been reading to her ever since she was an infant. Reading aloud helped Sheetal grasp the skill of reading faster than her friends who were not read to as infants. To this day Sheetal loves reading and her mother continues to read different books to her every evening. Experts say that a little bedtime story every night would do more wonders for your child than any costly reading programs could ever accomplish.
The Earlier the Better
Every night you should read to your infant for fifteen minutes. As the newborn cannot stretch out his little hand to pick out that flashy book, sitting on the top shelf, you must pick the book and read it to him. You may think that reading to your infant is pointless, but it actually helps your child get familiar with the language and vocabulary. Reading aloud will help your child to learn how to read much quicker. In addition, in helping with your child's development, it allows you as a parent to spend some quality time with your infant.
The Selection Process
As your infant grows into a toddler, he will want to be an active participant during story time. In addition to letting him turn the pages, let your toddler help you in choosing a book every evening. This will arouse your child's interest in reading and he will look forward to bedtime stories, instead of seeing it as a dreadful chore. If you find that your child wants to hear the same story every night, read that same book to him, but also read a new book to him. Variety will give your child a taste of different views, characters and places, which will help your child, in the future, to form his thoughts and opinions.
Initiating Thoughts About The Book
As your child is still young, it will be hard to initiate a deep analysis of the story. Instead ask some questions such as "Did you like the ending or did you like the story?" Your child may answer with a nod or a word, but remember these questions have struck your child and has caused him to think about the stories and characters. These little exercises will encourage him to be an analytical person when he grows up. Always remember that you as a parent should not be afraid to initiate your thoughts about the book to your child. However, while stating those thoughts it is important to make clear to your child that there is no one right opinion about any book.
Reading aloud will help your child grasp the skill of reading quicker. It is the cheapest and easiest way to pave your child's journey into success. As a parent you should read to your child aloud as this will encourage your child to gain a passion for reading, which will last him a lifetime. Reading aloud is the most effective way to teach your child how to read-so start as soon as you can!
