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What to do with this activity?
It's never too early to introduce books to your baby. As soon as they can sit on your lap you can have a book there with you and show them the pictures.
As your baby gets older show them how books work. Show them:
1) that there is a right way up,
2) that you look at the picture on the left first, then the one on the right,
3) how to turn pages, and
4) how to go from the front of the book to the back.
You don't need money to look at books. Your local library has a great selection of books - even for babies - and it's free. Just go in and ask how to join.
If you are looking at a magazine and your child is with you, point out things that you think they might recognise - like items of clothing or animals.
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Why am I doing this?
Sharing stories play an important role in a child’s development. They not only help children learn language and reading skills but they also have an emotional quality which can help children make sense of their feelings. Reading to babies and young children, and giving them time to respond, will help make the most of this opportunity. Recognising shapes will help your child to learn to read later on.
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How can I do more?
The most important thing is that reading is fun and enjoyable for both of you – five minutes can be enough. Just turn off the TV and find a quiet place so there are no distractions. And remember stories are not just found in books, it’s just as good to tell your child short, simple stories you know.
Remember, you’re not teaching your child to read. You learn to talk a long time before you learn to read, and sharing stories and giving your child time to respond is a wonderful way to help your child’s language development.
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