Reading doesn’t just take place in a library, a bookstore, or at bedtime. To help your child read better and more comfortably, follow some of these early learner reading tips.

Mapping A Trip

Reading is a critical part of learning, not just when it comes to books but also to other activities. An exciting way to teach this is to map out a common trip your family makes, like to the grocery store or church. Get out a local map and show your child the route to these areas. Have them write out the directions. Then on your next trip there, have your child read these out loud to you while you go along.

Pictures Galore

While on your next vacation or outing, take some action-packed pictures. Once you are home, have your child create a photo album or collage with captions and speech or thought bubbles for each photo. While this will build memories and is a fun family activity, it will also help your child practice their reading and writing skills.

Greeting Cards

There are quality reading opportunities everywhere. For example, the next time you need to pick out a card for someone, have your child pick out and read several of them. Then decide which one sends the best message for the occasion.

Find What Is Just Right

When choosing books for your young reader, it is crucial to find ones that fit their reading level. A good rule of thumb is to have your child read the front, back, and first page of the book. If they have difficulty pronouncing or understanding five or more words, the book might be too hard for them at this point. Helping your reader to choose a book that is just right for them will help them feel successful in their reading endeavors.

Building Vocabulary

One of the biggest tools to help your child to read well and love to do it is to build their vocabulary. This can easily be done by labeling everything in your home. Get some paper, drawing utensils, and tape and create labels for furniture pieces, toiletries, and knick-knacks. Reading these labels often and learning to sound out these items will help your child to amass a larger and more extensive word bank. If your family is bilingual, label items in both languages.

Encourage Appreciation

As your child reads more and more, they will start to appreciate some authors and illustrators more than others, becoming a fan of their work. Help your reader develop and write a letter to their favorite author. You will be surprised by how many authors will write a letter back to your child in response.

By trying out a few of these easy and fun reading tips at home and on the go, you will teach your child that reading can be exciting and used anywhere you go. You can also try out some of our fun and kid-friendly activities. Besides, you might just find some new family favorite traditions along the way.