Are you one of the million of parents who want to teach your child to read? If so, you already are aware of the enormous gift you can give them by teaching this life long skill. Today more parents are choosing to teach their child to read at home starting at a very early age.
Teaching your child to read is a process involving many steps and a variety of well tested techniques, but getting started on the road to reading is quite simple and involves little more than laying a strong foundation through very simple methods.
Teach Your Child To Read By READING
Reading aloud to your child each day is a great way to introduce reading at the earliest age. Take time to read aloud to your child at least once per day and more often if time allows. Choose a time when you and your baby or child can be together with limited interruptions. You may even choose to implement a family story hour where all of the family members can be involved. Parents and siblings who can already read can take turns reading their favorite story book aloud. This process helps to form an early love of reading and an understanding of phonics and proper pronunciation.
Teach Your Child To Read By SPEAKING
Demonstrating proper speech when communicating with your baby or child is essential to preparing them for reading. Speak to your child in full sentences and avoid baby talk. Speaking to your baby using proper pronunciation and form will help them to develop proper language skills which will assist them in the later learning stages. Encourage your child to speak as well by asking them many questions throughout the day. Be sure to make corrections to their speech as you go so they learn the proper way to form sentences and pronounce sounds.
Teach Your Child To Read By EXAMPLE
Just telling you child that reading is important may not be good enough. Reinforce this belief by taking time to read often. Set aside reading times in your home even before a child has learned to fully read. Turn off the TV and have quite times where the family reads on their own. Allow your child to see you reading books, newspapers, and magazines often. Share your experience by showing them pictures or telling them about the story you are reading. This builds excitement and a desire to read on their own.
Building a strong foundation and a love of reading are great building blocks when you are ready to teach your child to read. Start here and then move on to the more advance techniques to create a lifetime reader.

