National Book Month is celebrated in October each year to promote the importance of reading. Reading is a fundamental skill that everyone should develop, but it is especially important for children.
Reading helps children:
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Develop their vocabulary and language skills - Improve their comprehension and critical thinking skills
- Expand their knowledge and understanding of the world
- Develop their creativity and imagination
- Improve their focus and concentration
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Increase their empathy and compassion
Reading is a great way for children to bond with their caregivers! When you read to a child, you are sharing a special moment with them and helping them develop a love of reading.
How can I support the love of reading in my child?
- Start reading to your child from birth. Even babies enjoy listening to stories and they especially enjoy the sound of your voice telling those stories.
- Make reading into a daily habit by carving out special times of the day dedicated to reading.
- Choose books that align with your child's age and interests. Better yet, let them choose what to read!
- Make reading a fun and relaxing experience. Sit with your child in a comfortable spot and read together aloud.
- Talk to your child about the books you read together. Ask them questions about the characters, the plot and the themes of the story. You can even make up a new ending if your child doesn't like it.
- Take your child to the library or bookstore on a regular basis. Let them browse the shelves and choose books that they are interested in.
- Set an example for your child by reading yourself. Children are more likely to read if they see their caregivers enjoying reading as well.
- Check out the article How to Introduce Toddlers and Babies to Books, opens a new window.
- Check out more tips from Reading Rockets, opens a new window to encourage reading!
Looking for ideas to celebrate National Book Month?
- Check out some new books from your local library or bookstore.
- Have a family reading night where everyone takes turns reading aloud a section from their favorite book.
- Attend storytime!
- Build a fort out of pillows and blankets in your home and make a reading zone.
- Act out scenes with your child from their favorite books.
- Plan a book-themed party.
- Read a book that's been made into a movie or TV show and compare the two.
- This article from Reading Rockets, opens a new window provides more ideas for activities that make reading and writing fun!
Reading is a gift that lasts a lifetime. By inspiring a love of reading in your child, you are giving them a gift that will help them to succeed in school, in their careers and in life. Get started today with this booklist.
October is National Book Month. Encourage a love of reading with your little today!
Need help choosing what to read next? Ask A Librarian!
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