Recommended Practices When Reading Aloud to Children
Recomended Practice
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Outcomes (Why use this practice?)
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What You Can Do
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Set aside at least one consistent time each day for a story. This time should be ideal
for both you and the child.
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Ask yourself,
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Read the book to yourself first.
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Ask yourself,
If the book is appropriate but long, ask yourself,
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Make sure you and your child are comfortable and the reading environment is ideal.
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Ask yourself,
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Do a “Book Walk” together. Look at the illustrations and talk about the book.
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Ask the child,
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As you read the story, keep the child involved! |
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Ask the child questions before and while you read:
Ask yourself,
Allow them to turn the pages. If the book has repeat/familiar phrases occur in the book, allow the child to recite them. |
Always answer the questions that the child asks (during or after the story).
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Ask yourself,
Remember,
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Provide the child with opportunities to experience the book in a variety of ways. |
Children have a tough time sitting. This is normal. Allowing the child to stay engaged in the story in a variety of ways can help them keep their hands or bodies busy while listening. |
Ask yourself, is there some way I can help my child be active as part of this reading time? For example:
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Read books multiple times. |
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After the 10th (or 100th?) time reading the same story, remember,
Ask yourself,
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Set aside time to ask questions after the story. This can be immediately following the story or at a different time (e.g., dinner table, in the car, bath time, etc.) |
Supports a child’s comprehension and understanding of the book.
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Ask the child,
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Bring a third dimension to the story, such as doing an activity during or after the story. |
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Some examples to think about include:
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For questions, please contact Jennifer Munter at jennifermunter@montana.edu