Reading Aloud As A Family

Before you read.You might be nervous to read with your kids and that’s understandable. Maybe it will be helpful for you to read the book out loud to yourself before you have an audience. That way you can practice your delivery and tone of voice.


What you choose to read.Kids are smart and they’ll know if a book bores you, so make sure to select a book you both will enjoy and one that is fun to read out loud. Or better yet, have your kids pick the book out themselves. Also remember, words are everywhere, not just in books! If you’re in the kitchen cooking, read the recipe aloud, or while your eating cereal in the morning, read the box with them!


Make family reading time a fun time.
Turn off the lights and turn on a lamp. Maybe even put on your favorite pajamas or silly socks and get cozy. Reading at home is your classroom family time.


The end... now lets talk!
You don’t have to ask specific questions about what you just read but it is helpful to have a conversation. Tell your child what you liked about the story and what made you laugh and then see what they enjoyed the most.


Get them excited for the next story.
After you finish reading, tell them "More to come tomorrow!" and make sure keep your word!


I hope these simple tips make their way into your daily readings! While at it you can even start building a family library by shopping at garage sales or trading books with friends. Or instead of getting candy for doing good on a test or behaving well that week, treat them to a new book! The more you surround your family with literature the more comfortable they’ll feel reading on their own.


Happy reading and have a great weekend!