和孩子一起阅读(英文版).doc

How to make read-aloud time fun by Betsy Bozdech Last updated: September 2006 Highlights Before you read As you read After you read Youve heard it before, but it bears repeating: Reading aloud is one of the most important things you can do for your child. Not only do daily read-aloud sessions stimulate brain development and help foster a lifelong love of reading and learning, but theyre a great way for a parent and child to spend time together, especially at the end of a hectic day. Thats why reading aloud is part of so many families bedtime rituals. How can you turn reading sessions into events your child not only enjoys but anticipates? Try these tips: Before you read Choose appropriate books. For preschoolers, try to pick stories with clear-cut, ordered endings, and save tales with more ambiguous endings for older kids. While its important to avoid titles that are completely over your childs head, its okay to read books that are slightly more advanced in terms of vocabulary and story line. Children understand more than they re able to express or read on their own. And if you pick a dud, dont feel you have to finish it — admit you made a bad choice and start something else. Choose books you enjoy. Nine out of ten librarians agree: Its essential to pick books you like to read, whether theyre new titles or favorites from your own childhood. If you dont care for a particular story, it wont take long for your child to notice — and if you dont like it, why should he? Go to the library. Taking regular trips to the library teaches your child he can choose what he wants to read, plus its an inexpensive way to add new books to your rotation. The librarys special displays are a great place to find books that complement the season or a particular theme. And watching the librarians conduct their own story hour will give you ideas for your at-home reading sessions. Preview your reading. If possible, read through your childs book before the two of you settle down, sugge