Sharing a book at bedtime is very special. It is a time to treasure with your child and one that you both can look forward to at the end of a busy day. It is part of your daily routine and one to make that bond between you even stronger. Here are our Tips to make bedtime reading a pleasure for you and your baby.
Tip 1. Choose a special place to share your books
It might be in the bedroom, or it might be in a chair. Make sure there are no distractions.
Tip 2. Get really close together
Cuddle up and enjoy being with your baby.
Tip 3. Make it a routine
Every day is best and try to stay to the same time each day. It is a special time just for you and your baby.
Tip 4. Keep it short
To start with for very young babies up to 5 minutes is sufficient. If your baby loses interest, then stop.
Tip 5. Make book sharing interactive
Encourage your baby to touch the book. Also don’t feel you need to start at the beginning of the book each time. Be guided by what your baby wants. Why not change some of the words?
Tip 6. Use different voices to make the characters come alive
The sillier the better. Your baby will love it!
Tip 7. Use Repetition
The same words being repeated. This helps your baby remember the word. Let you baby see your mouth forming the word. Encourage your baby to make the sounds too.
Tip 8. Use Rhythm
Certain words have their own special rhythm. Rhythms will help with later word recognition and reading.
Tip 9. Use Rhymes
These are a great activity in themselves. Remember rhymes like, Round and Round the Garden like a Teddy Bear? and Humpty Dumpty? You will have your own favourites too. Why not have a rhyme-time instead of a story-time on occasions?
Tip 10. Spend time talking about the pictures you see
Encourage turn-taking. Ask questions like, “Where has that bear gone? “Do you think…?”. This helps your baby with observation and thinking skills.