Reading is involved in all aspects of everyday living. The ability to read is
therefore crucial
to functioning effectively in today's society. However, children who do
not see the importance of learning to read will not develop the disposition to
learn independently.
Learning to read takes effort. It should not be seen only as a
school-based activity but should likewise engage the full attention of parents
and other caregivers. The children would have already secured the trust
and warmth from caregivers at home. This comfort zone would provide the
basis for meaningful literacy interactions in the home.
Any approach to reading development should be a holistic one and should
involve an integration of the various modes of language (reading, speaking,
writing, listening) with meaningful interactions in specific
contexts. Children need to know that reading and writing are
desirable skills because they serve real-life purposes.
Following are some useful tips that can be employed at home to aid in reading
development.
- Read to the children every day.
- Introduce a book: (Point out cover design and ask them to predict.
As you read show them capital letters and other punctuation. Explain
where sentences start and talk about paragraph.)
- Echo read: as you read the child follow.
- Be role models: read everyday yourself.
- Don't make reading feel like school: (Read in your own special way.
Children should never feel that their parents are drilling them or testing
comprehension. Reading should be fun.)
- Let them choose books.
- Read different types of books (poems, songs, magazines,
newspapers)
- Reread books that are favorites for children.
- Let them join the library.
- Don't use reading as a punishment for some mistake the child has made: Children need to develop a natural love for reading and this will only be achieved by them enjoying reading.
- When reading with them, ask questions. (Who is your favorite
character? What part of the book do you like best? How else
could the story have ended? Does it remind you of another book you
have read?)
- Try to develop literacy skills without using books: (Ask your children to
make the grocery list. Read mails out loud. Point out street
signs. Read food boxes together.)
- Remember that reading should not feel like a chore so don't pressure the
kids. Start in small doses, for maybe five to ten minutes at a
time. If the they have difficulty reading, read with them.
Don't put undue pressure on reluctant readers, rather let them discover the
wonder of books through you.
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