Children who are read to from birth have a larger vocabulary and have a higher success rate of being lifelong readers and learners. Not sure how to begin? Check out our many resources for your youngest customers.
Storytime
Games & Play
STEM
Arts & Crafts
Reading to our children will not only instill a love of reading but will expand their vocabulary and build comprehension skills. Early literacy tip for caregivers- When you are out walking or driving, point out colors and words on road signs.
Singing slows language down and breaks words into syllables. Early literacy tip for caregivers-Sing “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” with an adult and choose the animals. Act the animals out together or use puppets or stuffed animals.
Symbolic play and dramatic play help children to develop language skills. Early literacy tip for caregivers-Act out your favorite fairytale.
Writing helps children to understand that words have meaning. Early literacy tip for caregivers-Have the child draw a picture, now write the word associated with each object.
Talking to a child will build their vocabulary and storytelling skills. Use unfamiliar words and explain their meaning. Early literacy tip for caregivers- Have a grownup narrate what they are doing to baby—for example—we are getting ready to go to the store, so we need to put your shoes and coat on, get Mommy’s purse and car keys, lock the door, etc.
Here are a few more resources you might find useful.
The Jan Jablonski Early Literacy Training Center at the Noyes Library for Young Children enables Montgomery County to ensure all children have developed the reading, listening and writing skills needed to enter school ready to learn.
