5 Questions about early literacy…answered by a librarian
The milestones parents celebrate are universal. First steps, first words and potty training are big ones.
But what about learning to read?
Literacy plays a large role in education, but it can be daunting and a lot slower-paced compared to the other milestones parents often mention.
We asked Elkhart Public Library children’s department head Allison McLean what common questions she gets from parents about early literacy. And she actually answered them, too.
- How do I prepare my child for kindergarten and learning to read?
The answer is read to them! Read as many books as you can. Come to library storytimes from an early age.
Another huge piece of this is preschool. A good quality preschool will give kids such a boost that year before they start kindergarten. Child-care centers and preschools can participate in Paths to Quality, a rating system the state of Indiana uses to grade child-care settings. Try to find a level three or four preschool to give your child the strongest educational experience. Visit BrightFuturesIndiana.org to learn more.
- How do I find good books for my child’s age and stage?
Ask a librarian!
We know our collection and understand the stages of child development. We would love to help you match with some great books and show you a little about what makes them good for that age.
Using our Book Bundles service is a great way to do this, too. Visit MyEPL.org/Bundle to request one today.
- What should I do if my child has speech or other developmental delays?
Don’t forget that children develop each at their own pace.
If you are worried they aren’t talking yet, boost up the language you are using with them! The more words they hear you say, the easier it will be for them to learn. Narrate your activities as you go about your day. Singing to them helps enormously.
If there is a true concern, talk with your child’s doctor and reach out to First Steps. They will give your child an evaluation and provide speech therapy or other services if needed.
- How can I support my child as they start learning to read?
Keep reading to them. Even when kids become fluent readers themselves, they still benefit from being read to. Another thing to do is model reading yourself. Sit down with your own book and read where your child can see you. Make reading a part of your family life.
- What should I do if my child doesn’t sit still while I read to them? And how can we fit reading into our routine?
Don’t stop reading aloud, even if it seems like they are not paying attention. It’s normal for toddlers to always be on the go, and they are still absorbing the language and the story, even if it looks like they are not paying attention.
Even as they grow older, many kids listen better if they are keeping their hands busy with something like coloring or building with blocks.
Also, reading together doesn’t just have to be at bedtime. Parents can read during meal times, playtime, anywhere in the day that makes sense to you!
Librarian recommends:
Books for parents about reading aloud