SHORT ON TIME? TRY THIS!

If you're short on time try these quick and easy tips to help make reading and language a part of your everyday routine.

• MEAL TIMES
  • Point out words on a cereal box over breakfast.
  • Describe the color or texture of what you’re eating.
  • Ask your child about his or her day.
• WHILE DRIVING
  • Point out words on street signs.
  • Together, describe what you see out the window. Are you next to something green or tall or bright?
  • Ask questions and talk about what you’re passing by.
  • This is a good time to sing songs together too!
• AT THE GROCERY
  • Have your child help find items like he or she is on a treasure hunt.
  • Describe if an item is up high or down low.
  • What is its shape and color?
• WHILE OUTDOORS
  • Talk together about what you see.
  • Explore the senses of touch, smell, sight and hearing.
  • Touch a tree – is it smooth or rough?
  • Feel the air – is there a breeze or is it still? Is it Hot or Cold?
  • What do you see?
  • What do you smell?
• DOING LAUNDRY
  • Describe what you’re doing.
  • Ask questions. What color is the shirt? Are pants long or short? Do they go on your head or on your legs?
• BATH TIME
  • This is a good time to share concepts such as wet/dry or float/sink.
  • It’s also a fun time to sing or ask questions. Is the water warm? What does your shampoo smell like?

WHAT YOU CAN DO!

Here's a few tips of what you can do as a parent, family member, caregiver, loved one or friend?

• Above all, make it fun!
• Make reading a part of each and every day, starting at birth.
• Bring books everywhere. Keep small ones in your car, purse and stroller and pull them out on the bus, while waiting at the doctor’s office or when standing in line.
• A few minutes is okay.
• Let children turn the pages.
• Talk about the story. Talk about the pictures.
• Ask questions such as who, what, when, where and why. For example, “What hat did he choose? Which hat would you have picked?” or “Why is the girl laughing? What makes you laugh?” Then, tickle, laugh together and get back to the story.
• Pause frequently to let your child talk.
• Interact while you read. Use voices, make faces and take time to rhyme or cuddle.