It is about the Interaction Not Necessarily the Book August 22, 2021 – Posted in: Blog, Inspiration

As an author of children’s books and others I am often asked questions like –

• What sort of books should I read to my child?
• Should I read word for word or can I add to the story?
• At what age should I start to read to y child? 
• Are your books suitable to my child with ADHD? 

Obviously many of these questions are a choice by you, the parent but in general any reading is good for your child.  It has been shown many times that it can calm an anxious child, it can explain why they are feeling how they feel, it can create joy and laughter within them and many other lessons and understandings of our complex world.  You don’t even have to read the story you can make up songs and funny anecdotes to the illustrations if you wish.  It is the interaction that is part of the whole thing.

Sharing stories, talking and singing every day helps your child’s development in many ways.

Reading and sharing stories can:

• help your child get to know sounds, words and language, and develop early literacy skills
• learn to value books and stories
• spark your child’s imagination and stimulate curiosity
• help develop your child’s brain, ability to focus, concentration, social skills and communication skills
• help your child learn the difference between ‘real’ and ‘make-believe’
• help your child understand new or frightening events, and the strong emotions that come with them
• help your child learn about the world, their own culture and other cultures.

Just by looking at books with your child and talking about them, you can be a great storyteller and a good model for using language and books. Your child will learn by watching you hold a book the right way and seeing how you move through the book by gently turning the pages.

Reading stories with children has benefits for grown-ups too. The special time you spend reading together promotes bondingand helps to build your relationship with your child.

You and your child might like to make up your own stories or share family stories. Your child will learn words and develop language skills from the songs, stories and conversations you share together.

As for when to start?, well there is no time like NOW!  No matter the age of your child starting is always good. Here are a few tips to start,

• Make a routine and try to share at least one book every day. A reading chair where you’re both comfortable can become part of your reading routine.
• Turn off the TV or radio, put your phone on silent, and find a quiet place to read so your child can hear your voice.
• Hold your child close or on your knee while you read, so your child can see your face and the book.
• Try out funny noises and sounds – play and have fun! [laughter can bond you with your child so easily]
• Involve your child by encouraging talk about the pictures, and by repeating familiar words and phrases.
• Let your toddler choose the books when they’re old enough to start asking – and be prepared to read your toddler’s favourite books over and over again! [I personally remember reading one of my children’s favorite books so many times I didn’t need to read at all as it as in my memory ?]

If you have older children, they can share books with your younger children, or you can all read together. Taking turns, asking questions and listening to the answers are all important skillsthat will help children when they start learning how to read.

Niki and I started writing children’s books to assist parents and children to ease into every day concerns that surround us.  Our books aim to make going to hospital, dealing with change, facing bullies and even just keeping clean a story in itself. Our newest project will be dealing with a serious problem across our world that effects not only children but adults as well.  Keep your eye on our site to see the newest release soon.