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 child.
Tip 1. Make it part of your daily routine
This then signals to your child that it is the end of the day and time to get ready for bed. Deliberately choose books that are calming because these will set the right tone to help your child go to sleep.
Tip 2. Choose a comfortable place to read
Make sure there are no distractions from anyone. Turn off the TV. Snuggle up.
Tip 3. Keep it short
10-15 minutes are all you need to have a lovely time together. Short bursts are good for learning.
Tip 4. Be guided by your child’s interests
Is it trains, animals? You know your child best. Go with their interests. Let your child choose the books to share at bedtime.
Tip 5. Do not be afraid to repeat the book
Children learn through repetition and they love to return to stories they know well, time and time again. You will have favourite books too.
Tip 6. Choose rhymes and poem books for variety
These are a good aid to learning about word sounds and rhythms which helps directly with their reading.
Tip 7. Be an explorer!
Talk about the picture and the story. If the books have pull-up flaps, let your child explore the book. You do not always need to start at the beginning of the book. Let your child hold the book and turn the pages.
Tip 8. Make the story fun
Make it come alive! Do this by making silly voices for the characters. Do weird noises. Now is not the time to be shy yourself. Your child will love it.
Tip 9. Ask questions
Ask questions like, “Can you see the lion hiding behind that tree? As your child gets older you can ask questions like, “What do you think is going to happen? Why?
Tip 10. Re-tell a familiar story
Re-tell a familiar story between you. Why not make up a new one together? This will really help when it comes to writing stories.