Let Us Read Aloud: Reading aloud to toddlers

Little Anaya was playing joyfully with her doll house. She takes a break, reaches to the book basket, pulls out her favourite book and takes it to her mom. Her mom reads it to her from where they had left the last time. It is a picture book and Anaya loves to point out at different fruits with her mom. They read a few pages together. Soon, Anaya runs off to a new toy she notices round the corner. Her mom closes the book and puts it back in the basket. This is how long read aloud time can be with toddlers!

But, this few minutes of reading is just right for them and will go a long way in creating life long book lovers!

Why is reading aloud to toddlers so important?

‘Words’ are the foundation for any language. And, two most efficient way of getting these words into our brains is either through eyes or ears. For toddlers, developing reading skills will take another few years. So, the best source to build a strong foundation for words and language in their brain is through listening. And, listening to good books will build a meaningful sound pattern in their brains which will help them make sense of words and sentences when they start reading.

Also, at this age, toddlers make a big leap in their word bank. They learn about letters, shapes, colours, fruits and so much more. All this can be reinforced through reading good picture books with them as often as possible.

Studies show that children who have been read aloud at early age perform significantly better than their peers.

When to read aloud

Read to your toddler as often as you can and anytime your child shows interest. However, try to schedule at least one fixed read aloud time every day. This will help your child develop a habit of sitting with a book and listening to it.

Read to your child while he or she is playing or eating snacks or just going around in the house. It is not necessary to make them sit still and listen to the book. Don’t assume that because the child is not looking at you or at the book he/she is not listening to the book.

However, there can be times, when your child is not showing any interest in reading, do not force the reading. You want your child to have a positive association with reading, so when the child is resisting, leave the book and return to it later.

Read what your toddler asks for even if it has been read every day for weeks after weeks. Toddlers love repetition.

How to read aloud

By reading aloud, you want to encourage your child to love and enjoy books. So, keep read aloud simple, pleasant and fun. Select books with lots of pictures. Read slowly and with expression for your toddler to understand. Where ever possible give characters voices to make reading fun. Use finger puppets or props if you can while you read. Encourage your child to point at the pictures. Talk about the pictures. Talk about the story. If the book has rhymes or poems, encourage your toddler to sing along and clap along.

If you like, record the story while you read and replay it the next time as audio book. Or have the grandparents record it for you. Kids will love it when they hear their favourite stories being read by familiar voices.

Your read-aloud experience with your child may not be the same everyday. There are good days and not so good days. But it is worth striving for reading aloud to your child on a regular basis.

Have fun and show your child reading is enjoyable.

Below are some suggestions for good read aloud picture books.