Early Childhood Literacy
Why read aloud to very young children? Children who are read to:
Discover that books are fun Can become better listeners Will understand the world better Have a greater chance of succeeding in school Get to cuddle with their favorite person: you! Experience beautiful art in picture books Approach learning to read with enthusiasm Every Child Ready to Read @ Your Library Here you will find:
A list of skills that will help you prepare your child to get ready to read in school. Also, there are recommended books for appropriate formats such as board books, concept books, and wordless books. Links to other fun literacy web sites Skills There are six skill areas that will help prepare your child to get ready to read in school.
LOVE BOOKS Print motivation: being interested in and enjoying books.
USE BOOKS Print awareness: understanding that print has meaning; noticing print everywhere, not just in books; and also knowing how to handle a book.
LEARN WORDS Vocabulary: knowing the name of objects
SEE LETTERS Letter knowledge: knowing that each letter looks different from any other; knowing the name of letters and sounds.
HEAR SOUNDS Phonological sensitivity: being able to hear and play with the smaller sounds that make up words.
TELL A STORY Narrative skills: being able to describe objects, people and events, and to tell stories about them.
Recommended Books for the Youngest Readers Board Books Ideal for exposing babies to books with short text and bright pictures, and a sturdy cardboard binding.
Concept Books This type of book is good for babies and toddlers to letters, numbers, shapes, and colors.
Wordless Books These books allow children who might not be able to read text but can “read” the pictures and still tell the story.
Reading Aloud Tips Choose children's books that you enjoy Read and reread your child's favorite books Set aside a time every day, for reading aloud Let your child participate in the story Remember: enjoy the book, don't teach it Read aloud even after your child learns how to read Be a role model - let your child see you reading as well Remember - Get your child a Library Card