 |
For
Ages 4–8
Podcasts & Videos
 ReadWriteThink videos demonstrate online interactive tools as well as share content and strategies you can use with children to have fun while enhancing learning.
Reading a Picture Book with a Child
Reading with a young child should be pleasurable and fun for both the reader and the child. There are a few simple things you can do to maximize the benefits of reading while keeping the process fun and engaging. Keep in mind three simple steps: Before, During, After.
- Before you start a book, ask the child questions about the cover or title. What does the child already know about the topic? What does the child expect will happen?
- While you’re reading, ask questions. Point out familiar and unfamiliar objects and words in the book. Above all else, let the child communicate with you about what he or she is thinking or wondering while you’re reading. Encourage interaction with the book, including concepts like colors, shapes, numbers/counting, and so forth.
- After you’ve finished a book, give the process closure by asking questions about what you just read, or make a connection to the child’s life and experiences. Let the young reader know that even though the stories in books may be made up, there’s real and valuable knowledge about the world and the child’s life to take away from the experience.
In this video, based on the Verizon Literacy Network podcast For Parents of Preschoolers—Talking About Stories, Episode 1: The Very Hungry Caterpillar, you will see excerpts of an adult demonstrating the Before, During, and After strategy with a young reader. The child in this video is already familiar with the book, but watch for the signs of interest and engagement, even on a repeat reading. Changing what you do for the Before, During, and After activities can make an old favorite seem new again.
Published April 2, 2008
|
 |
|
