Buzz
A love for reading will benefit young children throughout their lives. It helps them become better students and writers, with an expanded vocabulary and a deeper understanding of the world. The library is a perfect starting point for children to begin their reading adventure.
Steps
Visit your local library if it's been a while since you were last there. Take some time to explore the space, ask questions if you have any, and create a library card if you don't already have one.
Look for programs and services specifically for children at the library. Check the event schedule and ask the librarian if you're unsure. Some libraries even offer programs for infants and toddlers just starting to walk.
Read Aloud to Your Child Regularly. You can read before bedtime or at any set time during the day. Even if your child can’t read yet, help them understand that books contain stories, and storytime is a quiet time. For older children who are starting to read, begin with chapter books or slightly more challenging materials. For chapter books, you can read one chapter at a time.
Teach Your Child How to Take Care of Books. Never allow books to be left lying around carelessly or thrown about. Encourage your child to treat books with care and store them in special places. Ideally, books should be kept on a shelf, but they can also be placed on a small bedside table or desk when needed, especially if they’re in the middle of being read.
Create a Library Card for Your Child. While you’ll likely still be the one to check out and return books, it’s a great feeling for your child to have their own library card. When your child is old enough, encourage them to take care of their books and keep track of due dates, but make sure to supervise and remind them, especially in the beginning.
Attend Age-Appropriate Library Programs. Many libraries offer story hours, performances, and various activities for children. It’s a wonderful opportunity to help your child associate the library with fun experiences, and many of these activities are designed to encourage reading.
Visit the Library Regularly, About Once or Twice a Week. If your child has their own library card, let them check out books by themselves. Aim to borrow at least one book a week. Keep in mind that for young children, even one book per week can be plenty.
Read and use the library as a role model. Borrow books to read each time you take your child to the library.
Create a dedicated reading time every day. As your child grows, the bedtime story time can evolve into independent reading time.
Allow your child to choose their own books. For younger children, help them pick appropriate books, but still allow them to choose what they like. As they grow older, let them pick titles on their own and decide what they find interesting and suitable.
Sign up for a Summer Reading Program if available. It’s a great way to keep your child engaged in reading during the summer break, ensuring they continue to progress in their learning rather than forget what they’ve learned. Reading is also a great way to avoid boredom and excessive TV watching during the summer, even if your child only chooses to read comics or detective stories.
Tips
- Naptime can also be a great opportunity for reading. While your child may not always take naps, eventually they will turn into a reading time once your child is old enough. This way, both you and your child can get adequate rest during the day, even after your child has moved past the crawling stage.
- Most libraries categorize books by age. These books are suitable for children in the specified age group and are usually more readily available. If your child is a confident reader, you can start using books meant for children a year older.
Warning
- Do not tolerate tantrums or disruptive behavior that disturbs other readers. Remind your child that the library is a quiet place before entering. If your child becomes uncontrollable, take them outside to calm down.
- Always supervise your child in the library. Be aware of the library's policies regarding child supervision and the age at which children can visit without supervision.
