Though the toddler stage is too young for most children to be reading, it is never to early to begin encouraging your child and empowering them with a love of books. All it takes is a little of your time and patience and you can be well on your way to helping your toddler become a future reader.

The first thing to do is to read to your toddler often. There are many great books available that are written with toddlers and young children in mind. But don't stop there! Help your toddler become excited about the written word by pointing it out everywhere. Read signs, food packages, mail, and more to your toddler every chance you get. Do not worry if you think the words are too advanced or the subject too complicated. Your toddler will probably not understand what you are reading to him, but he will understand that reading is not only important but also fun.

Let your toddler catch you reading also. Curl up on the couch with a good book and let your toddler sit with you, or play on the floor while you read. If your toddler sees that reading books is something you do for fun often he or she will want to do so as well. Be a reading influence on your child.

Help your toddler create his own book to enjoy. Use colored paper and picture of your toddlers favorite things. Glue the pictures onto the paper, one picture per page. Then in bold, neat writing write below the picture what it is. Laminate the pages and staple them together. Your toddler will love having a special book of his favorite things. Read it together and point out that the words say what the pictures are. This is a great way to help the concept of words click for your child.

Learn more about this author, Summer Minor.
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