Daily story time
Find a short slot in your daily routine (bedtime works well for many families) to read one or two books together every day. Find a quiet, cosy place to snuggle up, and switch off distractions for a few minutes so you and your child have each other's full attention. Once story time becomes part of your routine, both you and your child will begin to look forward to this special time together.
Sharing a book
Sharing a book with your child can be a magical experience. By building story time into your daily routine you will be:
- Spending time together
- Developing your child’s imagination
- Introducing new words
- Expanding their knowledge of the world
- Giving them the chance to ask questions
- Helping them to relax and calm down
- Developing their love of books and reading
- Having fun together!
Repeat, repeat, repeat
Reading the same book again and again will help your child get to know the story. Once they know it well, ask them about what’s happening or what's going to happen next, and praise them when they respond.
Look at the pictures
The beauty of children’s books is that it doesn’t matter if you don’t read all the words - you can tell a story from the pictures! If your child knows the book well, or even if they don’t, let them have a go at becoming the storyteller just from looking at the pictures on the page. It will help improve their speaking skills and self confidence.
Let them choose
Your child will enjoy choosing books for themselves from a bookshelf they can reach, a book box at home, or even e-books on a phone or tablet. This will help you both discover the kinds of books and stories they enjoy the most.
Watch and learn
Watch this mum being led by her child’s book choices during story time. They read familiar books so the child can anticipate what’s coming next.
Listen up
Your child might prefer to listen to audiobooks. Why not listen together for a completely immersive and relaxing experience? Explore our audiobook recommendations.
Take a trip to the library
Why not Visit your local library, they're free to join. You and your child will be able to borrow lots of new books and you might find some activities you can try at the library too!
