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The time spent sharing a book with your child is an invaluable time for language enrichment and development. The shared experience is a special time that is intimate, cosy and quiet. Importantly, it helps develop the child's concentration while introducing them to new and varied vocabulary.
Parent responses that help young children develop language include imitating, labelling and adding more information. Ideally a favourite book is an excellent means of reinforcing language structure and familiar vocabulary.
Young babies may simply enjoy the movement of turning pages. They do not need a lot of detail and generally do not relate the animate to the inanimate pictures on the book. They are stimulated by colour and the carer's voice. The page turning can soon be turned into a "seeking" game as the child looks for an animated picture. As the child grows, they enjoy "feely" books or books that involve activities such as zippers, buttons and unfastening.
Some language and vocabulary may be beyond your child's comprehension or simply inappropriate. Use your own words and add interest. Insert the child's name for one of the characters.
Be alert to your child's response to the book.
Do not feel it is necessary to follow the text.
"Read" the pictures dramatically; using emotion, emphasising the rhythm and introducing new vocabulary.
Show anticipation for the next word or page - this enhances the child's interest
Ask the child to predict the outcomes.
Begin with sturdy books that can stand up to rough treatment. However, it is important that while these books can stand up to chewing, pummelling, banging et. Children should learn the value of special books and know that there are some books that are kept for special quiet reading times.
When reading to a young child choose a time when he or she is relaxed and not overtired.
For older children, reading can be a relaxing unwinding experience, before going to sleep.
When choosing books, be guided by your child's interests. Then, call on the help of:
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