Written by: Nermin Magdy Badr
Parents have a very important role in supporting readiness for their children, and we will mention here some strategies that can help them with this:
1. Story from books: We make reading aloud a daily ritual for the child. We choose age-appropriate books that contain colorful pictures and attractive stories, and we use different voices and expressions to make the story experience fun and interactive.
2. Surrounding our children with materials rich in printed words: such as alphabet cards, word stickers, and it is preferable to create a comfortable reading corner, or a book shelf full of their favorite books to encourage them to hold books and turn their pages.
3. Talk to them and listen to them: Participate in conversations and ask open-ended questions while reading or during daily activities. This helps develop the child’s language skills, vocabulary, and understanding.
4. Singing: Singing helps develop phonemic awareness, which is an essential skill for preparing for reading.
5. Introduce letters using fun activities like alphabet puzzles, letter magnets, or playing letters in the bathroom.
6. Play with sounds: Promote phonological awareness by playing rhyming games or focusing on the initial sounds of words; This helps your child develop an understanding of how sounds combine to form words.
7. Visit libraries or bookstores with our children and let them choose stories that interest them; To explore a variety of books and foster their love of reading and exploration.
8. Limit screen time: Excessive screen use can hinder reading readiness. Set reasonable limits on screens, and encourage activities like reading, storytelling, and imaginative play instead.
9. Be a role model for reading: Let your child see you enjoying books and reading for fun.
10. Celebrate achievements: Praise and acknowledge your child's efforts and progress in preparing for reading; This positive reinforcement encourages further exploration and learning.
Remember that every child develops at their own pace; So be patient and supportive by implementing these strategies consistently, and remember that parents and caregivers can always effectively support and promote reading readiness in young children.
