REading at home

Each day the children choose a book from our book corner.The children love choosing the books with you, and we hope that you have enjoyed reading them at home together so far.

There is no expectation that your child is able to read the words in the book yet. The intention is that reading with an adult who is excited about and interested in literature will help to nurture a love of reading that will stay with your child for the rest of their life. Listening to stories also supports the development of language – widening the children’s vocabulary and exposing them to ‘story language’.

Below are a few suggestions for reading at home with your child:

Start by looking at the cover together: What do you think the story might be about? What can you tell from the pictures?

As you read through the story pause to ask them questions about the events and the characters:

• Why do you think that happened?
• What do you think might happen next?
• How do you think s/he feels?
• What else is happening in the picture?

When you have finished the book, encourage your child to reflect on how they felt about did: Did you enjoy it? Why? Support them to link the story to events in their own lives: Have you ever seen a whale/pirate etc.? Have you ever felt like that character?

Your child may like to have turn reading the story to you by looking at the illustrations and making up a story about it, or retelling it in their own words.  This will help develop their understanding of story sequencing, setting and characters as well as consolidating their vocabulary.  They will not be able to read the writing, but retelling stories is a vital part of developing a love of books and understanding narrative structure.  (The children's versions also tend to be highly entertaining and often much better than the original!)

As always, if you would like more information or would like to discuss anything further, please come and talk to us.

Happy reading!