I’m sure we all know reading is one of the most important skills your child will learn. This skill is something we all use each and every day. However getting your toddler interested is not always easy to do; however, it will make her excited about learning how to read when the time comes.

When to Read

A lot of parents choose bedtime to read to their children. Cuddling while listening to a story is a favorite way to calm down from a long busy day. Doing this also provides a special bonding experience as well as creates wonderful memories.

Bedtime is not the only time you should read to your little one. Setting time aside in the morning or afternoon to read a book is a good idea, it helps them learn and understand books better as something to do for pleasure rather than just to relax and go to sleep. Remember there is no such thing as reading to your child to much.

Many libraries have story time once or twice a week. Taking your child to these readings can pique her interest in reading. Experienced storytellers have a knack for making stories exciting, and seeing all of the other kids enjoying the story will make a positive impression.

Making Reading More Fun

Anyone can make reading fun; you don’t have to be a professional to do it. The one-on-one time you give your child is just as important and fun to them. This allows opportunities for interaction that she doesn’t get elsewhere.

Use different voices while reading to your toddler, this helps spark their imagination and really get in to the story. Use finger puppets or props. Anything you can do to get your toddler excited about story time is great.

Having your toddler turn pages and point to pictures helps her get engaged in the story as well. Ask her to find things in the pictures or what she thinks is going to happen next.Things like this will get her involved, and that’s one of the most important things you can do to instill a love of reading.

If Your Toddler Won’t Sit Still

Yes there are some children especially younger toddlers that won’t sit still. If you have a little one like this don’t push her. Read as long as she will listen, and save the rest of the story for later.

Some children like to play with toys or roam around the room while being read to. If your child does this, it doesn’t necessarily mean that she’s not listening. If she’s being fairly quiet, she probably is.

Reading to your toddler gives the two of you quality time together. Making things fun and interactive will keep her interested in the written word. This interest will lay the foundation for a lifelong love of reading.

The biggest tip is to just enjoy your time with your toddler and a good book. Keep it fun and enjoyable for both of you.

Do you have any tips for reading to a toddler?