If they were lucky, many people can fondly remember being read to as children. Besides cultivating a love of reading and improving literacy skills, reading books aloud to children can also create cherished memories. If you lack confidence in your read-aloud skills, here are a few pointers to perfect your performance.
1.Pick a book that is a reasonable length. Don’t pick something that is too long for your audience; the kids attention will begin to drift before you reached the end. Don’t pick a story that is too short or simple either, however; they won’t have the time or inclination to become as engaged in the story.
2.Do the voices. Don’t feel silly; it will only make your reading less impressive. Really throw yourself into your dramatic reading. Try different voices out beforehand, and read with confidence. Even if the voices make your child laugh, it’s still a win for you.
3.Ask questions before you start, while you’re reading, and after you finish. Everyone loves being asked for input even if they are five years old. Asking questions engages the children in the story and its characters, whether you are asking for their observations of the illustrations, for their opinions on the character’s decisions, or for their predictions of how the story will turn out. Make sure you don’t ask too many questions, as it can break up the flow of the story. Keep it to about four or five total.
4.Provide opportunities to move and make sounds. Little kids need to move. Most can’t help it, so incorporate opportunities into your reading for movement and sound-making. Books with animals are excellent for these reasons.
5.Complete the story-time with an activity. Start saving supplies from around the house. With a little imagination, paper towel tubes, popsicle sticks, and even empty water bottles can be transformed into projects that connect to the book you have just enjoyed.
Good luck making your new memories!