Reading to your child is one of the most rewarding parts of the day. It’s a special time for bonding, and it also lays the groundwork for a lifetime of learning. But what if you could make that time even more powerful? Let us show you how to easily integrate language-boosting activities into your daily reading routine.
What is Literacy?
At its core, literacy is the ability to read and write. However, it’s a skill built on a foundation of early literacy skills, which include:
- Phonological awareness: Understanding the sound structure of words.
- Alphabet knowledge: Knowing letter names, shapes, and sounds.
- Print awareness: Understanding how written language is organized.
- Narrative awareness: Grasping the structure and elements of a story.
- Vocabulary: Knowing and using a wide range of words.
Fun and Easy Activities to Try During Story Time
You don’t need to be a teacher to help your child with these skills. We suggest incorporating activities that are “play-based” and “hands-on”. Here are some ideas:
Phonological Awareness:
- Rhyme Time: When you read a rhyming book, emphasize the rhyming words. After reading, see if your child can think of other words that rhyme. For example, if you read about a “cat” in a “hat,” ask, “What else rhymes with cat?”.
- Clap It Out: As you read, clap the syllables of a word. For instance, when you see “butterfly,” clap three times and say “but-ter-fly”.
Alphabet Knowledge:
- Letter Hunt: Point out letters on the page and say their names and sounds. For example, “Look, there’s the letter ‘P’! ‘P’ says /p/ as in ‘pig’!”.
- Sensory Letters: After reading, bring out some shaving cream or sand on a tray and have your child trace the letters you discussed.
Print Awareness:
- Finger Tracking: As you read, use your finger to follow along with the words. This helps children understand that print has meaning and that we read from left to right.
- Explore the Book: Talk about the different parts of the book, like the front cover, back cover, spine, and title.
Narrative Awareness:
- Story Maps: As you read, talk about the story’s characters and setting. When you’re done, you can create a simple story map together by drawing what happened at the beginning, middle, and end of the story.
Vocabulary:
- “Draw the Word”: When you come across a new or interesting word, have your child draw a picture of it. For example, if you read about a character who is “blushing,” have them draw a picture of a red face.
- Act it Out: Use your body to show what a new word means. If a character “stomps” through the mud, you can stomp your feet to show the action.
The Bigger Picture
Early and consistent exposure to books benefits children by establishing a strong foundation for literacy. So next time you and your child curl up with a book, remember that every page is a new opportunity for learning and connection. By incorporating a few of these simple activities, you can make story time even more impactful and fun!