This is a question parents have been asking for generations and will most likely continue for years to come.
Last year we had a visit from Australian author Mem Fox, reading to our students and talking to parents about ‘Reading Magic’. Her main objective is for parents to be reading to their child from birth and it doesn't have to be children’s books. Some busy parents I know read the newspaper to their newborn, just so the baby was hearing the structure and words of the English language.
Of course, reading with your child is a lovely bonding time. Sharing the joy of books is a wonderful gift to give your child.
It’s never too late to start!
Older children can enjoy chapter books with parents and child reading a chapter each, or even a page each for reluctant readers. Reading before bedtime, away from screens and devices is a good routine for young students, and a time to calm down and relax after a busy day.
Here are my tips (with a little help from Mem Fox and Timothy Shanahan)
- Talk with your kids – a lot!
- Read to your kids – a lot!
- Listen to your child read – a lot!
- Have your child tell you a story
- Encourage your child to write – lists, invitations, slogans, stories, poems or letters to grandparents.
- Make sure your child sees you reading at home.
Mrs Narelle Lawler
Junior School Learning Support Coordinator
