Reading with children
a blog by Magic Tales
Creating Magic in Storytime: How Parents and Guardians Can Participate
Reading is not just about identifying words and understanding text; it's a magical journey that helps children develop emotionally, psychologically, and even physically. In addition to cognitive development, shared storybook reading gives parents and guardians valuable bonding time with their children. Here are some tips for parents and guardians to make the storytime interactive and fun.
1. Set a specific reading time: The first step toward a successful storytime is setting aside a specific time each day for reading. This not only creates a routine but also excites children in anticipating the adventure that awaits them in the world of stories.
2. Choose the right books: Depending on the child's age, interest, and reading level, parents need to select appropriate books. Variety is key – ranging from storybooks, fact books, poems, or even encyclopedias shrink down for children. Exploring a range of topics would broaden their knowledge.
3. Active reading: Active reading involves asking questions about the story or discussing a unique phrase or picture. This exercise stimulates children's thought process and encourages them to form their interpretations. 'What do you think will happen next?' - is a simple question that keeps them hooked to the story.
4. Modulate your voice: An expressive storytelling session can benefit from the use of different voice tones for different characters. It adds a fun element and makes the story lively and engaging.
5. Incorporate storytelling props: Storytelling props such as finger puppets or flashy cut-outs enhance the visual aspect of the story and make it more exciting. Not only does this help in engaging your child but also aids in their comprehension.
6. Encourage re-reading: Rereading is an excellent practice as it helps children to familiarize themselves with words, phrases, or story structures. It further helps in vocabulary building and comprehension.
7. Discuss the book after reading: Engage in post-reading activities like discussing the characters, storyline, or the lessons learned. This interaction fosters reading comprehension and analytical skills.
8. Set a reading example: Parents and guardians need to be role models when it comes to reading. Seeing you enjoy your reading time will inspire your kids to develop a similar love for books.
Remember, your engagement during storytime plays a pivotal role in cultivating your child's love for books. The enthusiasm you show and the interest you take could be the difference in making storytime, an educational chore, or a magical experience.
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