Parents are naturally eager to see how their children progress through various developmental stages in each passing month and year. Ability to read is one of those most awaited milestones once a child is able to speak a few words on their own. In this case, there is no other effective activity than co-reading that serves this purpose. Co-reading or reading aloud with children is an enjoyable experience for both children and parents and this can be started at an early stage.

How does reading-aloud help children develop the ability to read?

Before children are able to read or understand the concept of reading words on a printed material, they become familiar with sounds we produce as words. An infant get attracted to a picture of an apple on a book and points his or her finger at it while listening to us say ‘apple’.  An adult who draws attention of the child to that picture while saying the name of the object showing a real apple at the same time helps the child realize the importance of language. 

Allowing children to listen to the sounds of the words associated to pictures or real objects they can see, touch or feel enable them become gradually aware of the existence of words. They begin to appreciate and practice active listening skills while making connections between the sounds they hear with associated words that appear on the printed material. This is an excellent way of preparing children to become enthusiastic and successful readers. 

Make it a habit

Let reading aloud be developed as a habit even after children become independent readers.  As stated earlier, reading together is a special time for bonding with your child as well as they can be further supported to move to higher levels in their reading  ability by reading materials that encourage them to practice complex skills than what they have already acquired.  

Reading can open-up opportunities to develop many other skills

Sometimes, children may ask to repeat the same story book each day.  Although we are excited to see them improving in their skills with new books and materials, we also should remember that reading is a habit that can nurture many other aspects within a child such as emotional skills, imagination and creativity. A child may ask for more time to draw a specific part of the story that is being read on a piece of paper. Do not prevent child from doing it since it is reading time, these are all linked to the development of a holistic child we all would love to see as parents and adults.  

Tips to follow when co-reading 

• Always point to the picture on the printed material while you read aloud.
• As you read, follow with your finger from left to right across the page. 
• Use clear and accurate pronunciation
• Keep spaces between words and add emotions to the words you read if it is a story.
• Co-reading is effective when it is done as an individual activity. However, it can be done with a group of children for a change as well.
• Select books that come from a wide range of topics/ cultures or variety of knowledge. 
• Be patient and consistent.

Being enthusiastic as an adult and making reading time full of fun and love will help children wait for this precious time the next day. What we should aim to accomplish here among children is a life-long love for reading with a realization that reading is a habit which can add immense value to their life. 

Tips:

• Co-reading can be started at an early stage.
• It should be done consistently.
• Follow correct techniques from the start.
• Read books come from various contexts.
• Show your genuine enthusiasm about reading time
• Appreciate their efforts and celebrate their accomplishments

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