Start Them Young to Finish Strong!
Children learn so much from infancy to the age of four. Their speech has gone from cooing to speaking words and forming sentences. I believe teaching a young child to learn how to read, is as basic a skill, as learning to speak. An adult reading to very young children is extremely important. Some children have the ability to learn words very quickly, which builds vocabulary, and before you know it, they're reading on their own. Some children need to be taught the sound symbol relationship, and then directly taught how to blend the sounds together to form words. Either way, it's great to start the children learning and having fun with letters, sounds, and words!
Reading is a fun educational time of sharing. In this busy world, parents must make the time to be with their children. Parents, who read to their children, demonstrate a love of reading. Sharing a book is "quality time," and a wonderful way to connect! When a story is finished, there is a great opportunity discuss it. Children should be encouraged to speak up, share their thoughts and opinions, and engage in conversation. This helps them to build up their confidence in speaking, which gives them a tremendous amount of self-esteem.
Reading is a fun educational time of sharing. In this busy world, parents must make the time to be with their children. Parents, who read to their children, demonstrate a love of reading. Sharing a book is "quality time," and a wonderful way to connect! When a story is finished, there is a great opportunity discuss it. Children should be encouraged to speak up, share their thoughts and opinions, and engage in conversation. This helps them to build up their confidence in speaking, which gives them a tremendous amount of self-esteem.
Reading a book with friends vs. playing video games!
Just look at their faces, you can see the difference!
Does your child love to read? Or...does he or she have to be "plugged" into an iPad, or "zoned out" on TV, or "spaced out" on a video game in order to be entertained? The boys pictured above look anxious and pretty stressed out. Remember, during the course of your child's education, he or she will be required to do a tremendous amount of reading. Wouldn't it be great, if they learned how to read, and acquired a love of reading at a young age?
"Those Who Read Together, Stick Together..."
Reading together is a wonderful pastime. Books are filled with great stories that will capture a child's imagination. Children who read will also acquire a wonderful vocabulary, which in turn, will help them to gain a better command of the English language. With an expanded vocabulary, children will have greater skills in both verbal and written expression. Kids will be able to discuss stories and other topics, and be engaging by contributing in conversations. Listening and expressing their thoughts and opinions is important, because it helps with socialization, and builds confidence! Unlike the fast, stressful diversion of playing video games or hours of watching the constant flickering of a TV, reading can be relaxing, fun, and educational.