Last week I spent a special morning at the New Parent Meet Up at Farinolio‘s, sipping coffee and sharing a little bit about myself and my journey into picture book writing… along with some tips and reasons for reading to our babies. Here are a few pictures that capture the joy of the morning.
During my mini-informal presentation, one of my mama friends also captured this snippet of a sweet reading-related testimonial about the special bonding demonstrated years ago when my son was born 16 weeks early.
I hope that this clip – along with the nine tips that follow -inspire you to read, read, read with your babies – and babies on the way! Now, without further fuss, are the nine tips I shared.
NINE TIPS FOR READING PICTURE BOOKS WITH BABIES and TODDLERS:
Tip #1: Make reading time special. (It’s about more than just reading. It’s about
bonding, interacting and fostering love of story and storytelling.)
Tip #2: Ask questions. “Where’s the___?” “Who/what’s that?” “What’s ___ doing?”
Tip #3: Read anywhere, anytime. Read often.
Tip #4: Add simple actions and/or sounds. (Like animal sounds)
Tip #5 Vary the delivery. Sing the story. Use different voices.
Tip #6: Let toddlers turn the pages. Anticipate what will happen.
Tip #7: Extend the story with an activity. (Like counting or drawing)
Tip #8 Read the same stories again and again… if they ask! That’s how they learn and grow.
Tip #9: Establish weekly library visits. (Let them pick some of the books.)
Happy Reading, all!
Laura Sassi Tales 
Wish I were there. My favorite writerly meetings include coffee! 😉
Your tips are right on, especially #6, which seems less common sense but is pivotal for making a listener be part of the reading.