One of the first steps to becoming a reader is developing positive reading behaviors. Even before children can "read", they should be involved with books and print in a positive way. Children who have developed positive reading behaviors choose to read. They enjoy pretend reading, sharing ideas, and asking questions about stories.
Read to your child on a daily basis. You may want to establish a nightly routine of a bedtime story.
Talk with your child about stories you have read together.
Allow your child to "read" familiar stories to you. Accept his/her version of the story.
Get a public library card for your child.
Allow your child to select the story he/she would like to hear, even if you have already read it 100 times.
Provide a special place for your child to keep his/her personal books and library books. This special place will send the message that books are important.
Select different types of books and a wide variety of reading materials for your child to choose from (e.g., magazines, newspapers, nursery rhymes, fairy tales, recipes).
Point out print in the environment (e.g., signs, cereal boxes, restaurants).
Give books as gifts. Select high quality books with detailed illustrations. If you are not sure, ask your child's teacher or a salesperson at the bookstore.
