Enjoy Picture Books with Children

When children enjoy book-sharing time with you, they develop life-ling learning capacity, good feelings about books and how to treat them. Here are some ways to get the most out of this together time:

• Focus on your child's attention span. At first, a few minutes of book time exploring a picture together builds interest that will grow.
• Children often develop a favorite page or picture. That indicates a growing interest in book fun. That's just what you want to see.
• Let your child set the pace. Early on your child may want to repeat a page, a section, or jump around skipping pages. Perhaps he or she will want to go to a different activity or conversation. Don't be too concerned about how long they remain interested, because you will see their interest increase as they are able.
• It's OK if your child thinks you are "reading the pictures". They are actively trying to make sense out of what you are showing them.
• Clear simple words are easier for a child to mimic and learn. They love to show you they can repeat a sound. They will mimic a sound before they get the meaning.
• Point at the features you are talking about and help your child touch the picture parts you are describing.
• Soon your child may point to the named parts of the picture, as you have earlier shown them to do.
• After many months of "picture reading", your child may notice the printed words. Then you may point to words as you read them, and then point to picture part you just said if child is not doing so.
• Remember your child is still more interested in the pictures and being with you. (Lap-reading or "next-to" reading allows for needed nurturing touch.)
• Let yourself enjoy the pictures and reading together. Then your child will feel that reading is a happy thing to do.
• Look for books that have the basic 8 crayon box colors. By reading daily, your child may learn those color names in time for kindergarten .
• Children come to understand that pictures are symbols for known objects. Also other pictures that show unfamiliar objects can expand your child's ideas and vocabulary.
• Quiet-time sharing books : Children get more out of the experience if you turn off the TV and other distracting sounds. That makes it easier for both of you to focus on your shared together time.
• Though you may start with only a few minutes as attention span allows, gradually increase your daily book time to 20 minutes.
• Before bedtime routine: start with a warm bath, to help your child relax; a favorite book to read together; a drink of water, and a kiss goodnight. This regular routine will help your child feel safe and more relaxed for a good night of sleep (10 hours recommended).