Making a book together is another easy way of getting your child interested in and enjoying books.
- While you make the book they will be developing their drawing and writing skills, as well as developing their language skills as you chat together.
- When you read the book together they will be the expert on telling the story, this will support their confidence and communication skills.
- They will also be developing their knowledge of books and how they work.
How to make an 'I Can Do' book:
- Talk with your child about the things they can do.
- Invite them to draw pictures of themselves doing some of those things, such as brushing their teeth or putting their coat on.
- They could have a go at writing labels for the pictures. It doesn't matter what their writing looks like, it may be a scribble, a squiggle, or circle shapes, these marks are all the beginnings of learning to write.
- If you write for your child, ask them what they'd like you to write, this will give them more ownership of the book.
- Stick the drawings into a scrapbook (you can make one yourself with recycled cardboard or use an old notebook).
- You could add photos to the book too.
- Read the book together and share it with other family members, your child will be proud of their achievements, and that they can read the book themselves.
- Keep adding to the book as they achieve new skills.
Watch the video for ideas
For older children:
Make another book. You can make books about all kinds of things. Your child might enjoy making a book about something that interests them such as dinosaurs, vehicles, dogs or insects. Or they might enjoy making a book about a special family event or outing. just join a few pieces of paper or card together and let their imaginations do the work.
