Did you know that children develop literacy skills before they learn to read - just as they develop language skills long before they begin to speak. Here are five ways every family can encourage reading and raise a reading child. These are from the San Mateo County Library and America.gov websites.
1. Read out loud to or with your child at least once a day, even if it's as little as 10 minutes. No matter how young the child is the sound of your voice, time spent together and example you set will make a lasting impression.
2. Visit your local library at least once a month. Libraries have numerous literacy programs, book and materials (books on tape, puzzles, etc.) that help engage your young reader.
3. Get yourself and your child a library card. Access to the library opens doors of knowledge, encouraging and supporting creativity and imagination - both tools for academic success.
4. Attend library story times and other family programs. Story times are fun and educational for children. In addition to educating parents on exciting new books for the age level, story time is a great time to meet new friends and members in the community.
5. Most simple of these is to READ yourself as a parent, for you are the best teacher your child will ever have.
