How to Read a Book to a Child

Before Reading:

• Read the book yourself to become familiar with it.
• Show the cover and read the title. Let the children make predictions about the story. Predictions may be written on the chalkboard, flip chart or large pieces of paper.
• Let children tell about their own experiences related to the book.
• Introduce the main characters and the setting.
• When you are reading an informational book, let the children tell what they know about the topic. Record the children's responses in a web.
• Set a purpose for listening. For example, you might say, "Let's find out what Rosie saw on her walk."
  
  During Reading:

• Read the book with enthusiasm. Create voices for the characters...make your voice create sound effects.
• If you are reading a big book, use a pointer or your finger to point to each word as it is read.
• Remember, younger children will want to talk to you about the book as it is read.
• Stop several times and ask, "What do you think will happen next?" Also ask, "Why do you think so?"
  
  After Reading:

• Encourage children to retell the book - flannel pieces, sequence cards, story can with props all stimulate the retelling of the story.
• Talk about how the book is like other books the child has read.
• Expand the information web made before reading.
• If the children liked the book, reread it again and again...you will know if they like the book! Rereading gives children a feeling of success and power when they know what is next.
• Extend the story with art, drama or a sensory experience.

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