Books provide a focus for a quieter time, allowing your
child to begin enjoying stories and imagination. At
this stage books are not about learning to read - they
are about enjoying stories for their own sake and learning
to focus and listen, important skills for later use.
Books also lend a feeling of security by allowing you
and your toddler to return to old favorites time and
time again.
• You will have to teach your toddler how to look
at and take care of books. Choose sturdy, wipeable board
books; these pages are easier for little fingers to
turn. Keep these books within easy reach of baby so
she can choose them on her own.
• Look at them together with you reading the words.
Explain things clearly when you have your toddler's
attention and take time to discuss pictures. This also
provides a chance for you to bond with your toddler.
Reading with your toddler can be done at any time of
the day for the sake of reading or to quieten down e.g.
before bed time.
• Ensure there is no background noise when you
are reading. Turn off the television, radio so that
it is possible for her to really focus on your voice
as you read the words.
• Sit with your baby closely held in your lap.
Hold the book in such a way that she can see the pictures
clearly and begin reading. Give your baby enough time
to look at each page.
• Respond to your baby's reactions to the pictures
or the story. Enjoy her enjoyment.
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