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One of the best ways to introduce a child to the world of reading is to set the example. They should see the parent reading for pleasure and enjoying it. This teaches them that reading is not just for kids - it's fun for big people, too. And, while this may seem elementary, it sets the foundation for a lifetime of reading pleasure. Children aspire to be like their parents in every which way and form, and by showing them how much YOU love to read, they learn to love reading also.

While serving as an example is the primary step in setting the stage for literacy in young children, it is only the first step in a series of potential icebreakers to childhood reading. Becoming INVOLVED in the child's reading efforts is a very necessary second step. Sitting down with your toddler on a daily basis and reading to them is extremely important. Don't wait until the youngster enters kindergarten. Read to your infant. Children should be introduced to books very young. It is never too early!

ACT OUT the stories that you read. Don't just blurt out the words - say them with VERVE AND GUSTO! Children love to dramatize stories, and getting them to play act the parts is a WONDERFUL method of getting them INTO the storyline. This excites the little actors within. Children are natural actors and putting on skits of the story, making props for their play, and even gathering the family around the living room as an audience while they perform helps them to connect books with pleasure.

Artistic youngsters may enjoy creating a book of their own, complete with colorings and their own words. Even kindergarteners can develop small books by folding papers, creating one or two characters, drawing the "scenes" and, with the help of an adult, writing several words per page to tell a story. This not only teaches children the love of reading, but helps them to understand better what it takes to make a story. It will also help them to develop an appreciation and talent for creative writing skills. But, as in all other activities related to teaching young children, the ACTIVE presence and INVOLVEMENT of the parent is critical.

Book discussions about the different story characters, the plot, and "what ifs" (what if this happened in the story, instead of that, how might the story have changed) and similar topics that help to break down the story, giving the child a chance to analyze the plot more critically and to learn the mechanics of reading and writing, as well as to develop the critical thinking skills so necessary for almost every aspect of their future lives.

Reading is an essential skill for survival in today's world. It takes some effort to learn it. But, no one should say that the effort it takes to learn reading is a chore ... because, with the parent's involvement and right attitude, it doesn't have to be. Reading is fun!

Learn more about this author, Mary Pagay.
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