The 5 Early Literacy Practices: Reading

During the past few months I have been writing a series of posts about the five early literacy practices for young children--talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing--outlined by the ALSC's Every Child Ready to Read @ Your Library initiative. The single most important thing you can do to help your child get ready to read is to make reading an enjoyable and daily part of life in your home. Picture books with just a few words of text on each page and expressive illustrations provide a delightful way to share the reading experience with a child who is just beginning to decode words. Here are a couple recommended reads:
Banana! by Ed Vere     E Fiction Vere NEW

Two monkeys plus one banana equals serious drama! All expressed through the use of one simple word on each page: banana!

Yo! Yes? by Christopher Raschka      E Fiction Raschka 

Two boys meet and become friends using just two words. Have your child help read this one with expression—be sure to point out and explain the punctuation marks!

Many picture books work on multiple levels—offering satisfying stories for kids, as well as references that adults appreciate. Recommended read:

Virginia Wolf by Kyo Maclear    E Fiction Maclear NEW

This story about a little girl in a “wolfish” mood whose sister paints beautiful pictures to help her feel happy again will appeal to literary adults, as well as their kids.

Often, picture books are works of art in and of themselves and offer wonderful introductions to artists and art movements. Recommended read:

Magritte’s Marvelous Hat by D.B. Johnson      E Fiction Johnson NEW

 

Dreamy, yet crisp illustrations tell a story about a painter and his magical hat. This book is inspired by the work of French surrealist artist Rene Magritte.

More ideas for making reading a part of your child’s daily life:

·    Make sure your child sees YOU reading your own books! (Your child is your biggest fan and wants to be just like you.)

·    Create a special place in your home to keep your child’s books, such as a low shelf or table. If space allows, make a “reading nook” with soft floor pillows or a bean bag chair and a nice, bright reading lamp for your child.

·    Read signs, menus, directions, instructions, and any other text you see when you’re out and about with your child.