Reading Aloud to Preschoolers
Ways for Parents to Make Storytime fun for Children
Storytime should be fun for your preschooler. This article offers ways that parents can make reading enjoyable for children.
The benefits that children can gain from listening to parents read stories can be insurmountable. According to the National Network for Childcare "Better Kid Care: Reading Aloud," reading to children can do the following:
- increase vocabulary
- stimulate imagination
- sharpen observation skills
- enhance listening skills
- promote self-confidence and self-esteem
- contribute to the child’s problem solving skills
- satisfy and heighten curiosity
- encourage positive social interaction
According to the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), "One key to children’s reading success is making their reading experience entertaining, relaxing, and enjoyable." There are a number of things that parents can do to make storytime fun for children.
Breathe Life into the Storybook Characters
Make storytime fun for preschoolers by bringing the storybook characters to life. Use voice animation, pitch or tone changes, and facial expressions that adequately reflect emotions. Giving each storybook character a personality adds to the excitement of the story.
Find a Cozy Spot to Read Aloud to Your Preschooler
Make reading enjoyable by finding a cozy spot to relax. You can sit on the sofa, use your favorite rocking chair with your preschooler perched on your lap or you and your little one can snuggle on a bean bag. The important thing is that you and your child are comfortable.
Don’t Force Your Preschooler to Listen to a Story
Never force your child to listen to a story. Doing this will only make him resistant to future reading sessions.
Choose Age Appropriate Children’s Books
A preschooler’s attention span is not very long, so it is important to choose books that are suited for the age of your child. Many books offer age recommendations on the cover. If you start reading aloud to your preschooler and you realize that the story is too long, don’t panic, simply choose another book. A child’s attention span increases with age so you can put the book on the shelf and try again at a later date.
Reread Favorite Children’s Books
Just because you’ve read The Very Hungry Caterpillar a dozen times doesn’t mean that you should never read it again. Preschoolers enjoy repetition and they never get tired of listening to their favorite stories. If you find books that they enjoy, keep reading.
Choose Children’s Books with Colorful Illustrations
Preschoolers are curious about everything. So naturally they’ll want to indulge in books that have plenty of visual appeal. Try choosing children’s books that have bright and vivid Illustrations.
Let Your Children Participate in the Story
Don’t just read during your preschooler's storytime, let him become involved by encouraging him to discuss the book. You can even take it a step further and plan fun, age-appropriate activities that are related to the story.
When you take time to read to your preschooler, you are giving him one of the greatest gifts imaginable.
