Did you know you can read the same books, over and over again with your child? Re-reading the same thing gives your child the chance to remember the story. They can also grow comfortable with words, print, and letters. You do not have to have a new book to read each time!

Rhyming is when two or more words have the same ending sound. Learning about rhyming is a fun and important way for children to develop their language skills.

To help your child learn about rhyming when you aren’t reading together, try:

• Singing songs and reciting nursery rhymes with your child. Many songs and nursery rhymes use rhyming words.

• Playing rhyming games. There are many different rhyming games that you can play with your child, such as “I spy” and “Simon Says.”

It is important for your child to learn the alphabet, including all of the letters – both big (uppercase) and small (lowercase). There are a few ways you can help them practice.

• Point to and name letters in books while reading.

• Show them letters that are in their name.

• Read alphabet-themed books.

• Sing the alphabet song.

• Point out letters in the world around you – like on signs (a STOP sign), menus, or labels.

Hearing and talking about new words – or vocabulary – will help your child grow their language skills. Children learn vocabulary in many ways. Here are ways you can help your child explore new words:

• Talk to your child often. Talk about your day, describe what you are doing, and ask your child questions.

• Talk about pictures in the story you are reading, and ask your child questions. Don’t be afraid to use “big” words as you describe the story.

Writing their name is a key skill for your child to learn. There is no rush – it takes practice for a child to learn how to write their full name. Even very young children love to pretend to write! Here are some ways to help them practice:

• Show your child how to write their name. Write it slowly, and explain how you are making each letter.

• Talk out loud about the letters in their name to help them make the connection between print and their own name. “That word begins with an “s.” You have an “s” in your name!”

Even after you finish a book, you can keep talking about it. Talk about the people and animals. Or talk about questions your child asked. Talking about the book will help your child understand the story and its meaning. It will also give them a chance to practice using new words or ideas.

Talking about the book is also a great way to bond with your child.

To help your child learn that print has meaning, point to the text when you read. You can track the words with your finger. Or talk about the text as you see it on the page. For example, “I see many words on this page,” or “I see only one word on the page,” or “There is a capital ‘B’.”

You can also tell them about different parts of the book. “This is the front cover; this is the back cover; here is how I hold the book and turn the pages.” Show them how to read words from left to right, and from top to bottom on the page. You can also show them other parts of print, like spaces between words or periods at the end of the sentence.

Children with strong print knowledge are better able to learn how to read and write.

Most of all, reading with young children should be fun. There is no perfect way to read with your child. The important thing is that you read often! Give your child many chances to hear stories and to practice all these reading skills. Use these tips to help make reading fun and enjoy to shared reading:

• Choose books that match your child’s age and interests.

• Read the same books over and over so they have a chance to grow their skills and confidence.

• Make a cozy reading spot in your home so you can snuggle up and read together.

• Read with silly voices. Vary your tone of voice or use different faces to bring the story to life.

• Ask questions and let your child ask questions.

• Make it a positive experience.