Reading seems to be one of those big milestones in a child’s life that parents think about A LOT.

When will my child start reading? Am I missing something at home? Is my child behind, or ahead, in their reading ability?

We’re here to reassure you. Helping your child learn to read, or improve their reading, doesn’t have to be stressful or laborious.

In fact, it can be fun!

Here are 3 simple ways parents can help a child read at home.

Start young. Speak, read and sing to your child, starting from day 1, using a wide range of vocabulary. The more your child hears new words, the greater their vocabulary will be once they start speaking. Don’t hesitate to speak or read, even when you think they don’t understand you!

Don’t force it. Give reading a positive association. If your child isn’t interested in books on a given day, simply put the book away and try again later. Speak about reading positively. “I’m happy we have a few extra minutes to read tonight. It’s our special time together!”

Build a lifestyle. Rather than delegating reading to just the hours before bedtime, consider reading during other times of the day. Let your child see you reading real books. Make regular trips to the library! Ask big questions about the stories you read, and consider writing and illustrating books of your own!

Reading and books are certainly important themes in a young child’s life. We’re here to remind you that there’s nothing to worry about. Enjoy the journey to literacy with your child!

If you’d like more, try these 11 tips from Timothy Shanahan.

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