Educational experts and psychologists unanimously agree that early reading significantly boosts a child’s language development. Even before they can speak, babies benefit from hearing words, which increases their vocabulary and understanding of language over time.
In this article, educational expert Huda Akef explains the importance of teaching children to read early and offers 9 practical steps to help them fall in love with reading. Starting early provides long-term benefits during a time when children are naturally curious and free to explore.
The Child’s Early Experience with Language
There’s no doubt that spoken and sung language plays a crucial role in a child’s early development—even while still in the womb! That’s why experts encourage parents to read and talk to their babies before and after birth.
Books, stories, and even oral storytelling by a mother or grandmother offer rich language exposure, often with more detailed and expressive vocabulary than everyday speech. This deepens a child’s expressive abilities, which are key to later academic success.
In fact, many nurseries and preschools now begin teaching literacy skills before formal schooling starts. While in the past children didn’t learn to read until school age, today the process often starts from birth—sometimes even during pregnancy.
Reading to children is one of the best ways to instill a love for reading and prepare them for learning. However, many parents still overlook this valuable opportunity. A home filled with books and written materials provides a strong foundation for literacy development.
It’s important to remember that reading is not an automatic skill—it must be taught through various strategies, including phonics, sound awareness, and more.
9 Simple Ways to Teach Your Child to Read at Home
1. Phonemic Awareness Through Rhyme and Rhythm
Play children’s songs with rhymes and rhythm. These help kids recognize syllables and sounds in words, which builds phonemic awareness—a vital skill for reading. This fun activity is a great way to introduce early literacy skills.
2. Word Cards
Make simple flashcards with three-letter words and pictures. Have your child pick a card, read it together, and identify each sound. This teaches phonics and word decoding. Focus on the sound of each letter more than just the letter names.
3. A Print-Rich Environment
Encourage your child to notice printed words on books, signs, and labels. Ask questions like, “What’s the first letter in this word?” or “Do you know another word that starts with this sound?”
4. Word Games
Play fun word games to help your child listen to and manipulate sounds. For example: “What sound does this word start with?” or “What sound do you hear at the end?”
5. Using Technology
Children enjoy using tablets, phones, or computers. Use this to your advantage by introducing them to educational apps or classic storybooks in digital format. Learning becomes fun and interactive!
6. Keep Motivation High
Make reading enjoyable and exciting. Children may start out eager, but lose interest when it gets hard. Keep them motivated with small rewards or praise for completing activities and reaching new levels.
7. Dialogic (Interactive) Reading
Engage in interactive reading where your child participates in the story. Ask questions like “What do you think will happen next?” or “How else could the story end?” This builds comprehension and vocabulary.
8. Let Them Choose Their Books
Help your child choose books they love—whether about dinosaurs, animals, cars, or favorite characters. Look for books with vivid pictures and simple text, designed for young readers.
9. Be Patient
Let your child learn at their own pace. The most important thing is to make reading a joyful experience. Read regularly, choose activities your child enjoys, and let them pick books from time to time. This nurtures a love of reading that will serve them for life.
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