As parents, we all want our children to excel in reading—it’s the key to unlocking a world of knowledge and imagination. But with so many distractions around, how can we help our kids develop strong reading habits? For young children, learning to read is especially critical at the start of their educational journey, as literacy helps build cognitive abilities and language proficiency and has a direct impact on later academic achievement.
While there are no shortcuts to developing early literacy, there are some great ways parents can support their kids in becoming strong readers.
Beyond Books: Surrounding Kids with Words
Reading goes beyond just sitting with a book—it’s about creating a world full of words for your children. To nurture strong reading skills, fill your home with opportunities to engage with letters and words. For instance, use written instructions instead of telling them verbally. Create a daily routine chart, a homework checklist or activity instruction. Board games with words or word-based puzzles are also always a good way to reinforce vocabulary and spelling skills. But don’t stop there—words are everywhere, and so are learning moments! Encourage your child to read road signs, restaurant menus, or even food labels at supermarkets.
Follow Their Curiosity
Kids interact with books in their own unique ways, and it’s important to let them explore at their own pace. Some may flip through pages quickly, focusing on pictures, while others invent their own stories or make up songs based on the illustrations. Some might want to read the same book again and again, while others crave something new each time. Whatever their approach, it’s important to support their natural interest.
Give your child the freedom to choose what they want to read. When they’re excited about the subject, they’re more likely to dive into the book and really engage with the content. For younger kids, visiting libraries or bookstores and allowing them to pick out books that spark their interest can build excitement around reading. For older children, introducing them to captivating book series can turn reading into a fun and ongoing adventure, keeping them coming back for more. Letting them take charge not only boosts their love for reading but also empowers them to make reading a personal and enjoyable part of their lives.
If you’ll like to find great reads for them, check out the National Library Board’s recommended book list for Primary School children here –https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/site/discovereads/children/reading-recommendations/booklists
Start Them Early—It’s Never Too Soon
It’s never too early to start reading with children. In fact, babies can respond to being read to even before they’re born. Early exposure to reading helps foster a love for books and encourages early literacy development.
One effective way to promote this is by modeling the act of reading. Children love to imitate, so if they see their parents reading, they are more likely to follow suit. Instead of reaching for your phone or turning on the television while your children play, consider picking up a book or magazine to set a positive example.
Build Literacy Through Everyday Conversations
Building your child’s literacy skills goes beyond just reading and writing—it’s about having regular conversations. Talk to your kids often to help expand their vocabulary, even if they aren’t fully able to respond yet. Children absorb language through listening long before they can speak fluently, so don’t worry if it feels like you’re doing most of the talking.
Discussing what your child reads is another powerful way to enhance their understanding. Ask open-ended questions about the stories they’re reading, like “What did you enjoy most about the story?” or “What would you do in that character’s place?” These conversations encourage deeper thinking and help your child grasp the meaning of the story on a more meaningful level.
Set A Reading Routine
Life can get hectic, especially with young children, but carving out dedicated reading time is essential. Make reading a regular part of your daily routine—whether it’s after meals or before bedtime, choose a time that works best for your family and make it a habit.
Even small moments count—reading a book together while waiting for the bus or during a quiet break in the day can add up. The key is to make reading part of the routine without adding pressure. Consistency will help foster a love for books, but flexibility keeps the routine stress-free!
Encourage Reading Fluency through Repeated Reading
Repeatedly reading the same text, whether it’s a storybook or a passage, helps reinforce their reading skills. Research shows that this practice enhances both reading fluency and comprehension. By revisiting the same material, children become more familiar with the words and phrases, which boosts their confidence and speed in reading. This repetition also allows them to grasp the story or content more deeply, improving their understanding and retention. So, don’t hesitate to let them enjoy their favorite books over and over—it’s a powerful way to support their reading development.
Add Audiobooks to Daily Routine
It’s a fun and effective way to help your child enjoy stories and boost their listening skills. You can play audiobooks during car rides to school or when they’re having their breakfast. It’s a great way to make the most of those moments and turn everyday tasks into learning opportunities.
Audiobooks expose your child to a variety of stories, vocabulary, and different accents, which can enhance their understanding and appreciation of language. Search for “kids audiobooks and stories” on Spotify or Youtube – Our favourites include Storytime with Faye, Little Fox Kids Stories & Songs on Youtube and SuperTruck, Lingokids, Bedtime stories for kids by BabyBus on Spotify.
Reading unlocks endless possibilities and fosters a world of imagination. To help your child build confidence and enhance their reading skills, make reading an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Embrace library visits, engage in conversations about stories, and set aside time for reading sessions. The key is to nurture a lifelong love for books. Remember, every child’s reading journey is unique, so be patient and supportive, allowing them to progress at their own pace.
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