One of the best ways to support your child’s growth and development is to read aloud with them. It is especially important to start early, as research shows 85 percent of the brain is developed by age 3. The benefits of reading aloud are well documented and programs like Reach Out and Read (ROR) are supported by a large evidence-base. However, it can be intimidating to read with a squirmy 2 year old or to read aloud to kids who cannot yet talk themselves. Below are some tips to keep in mind when reading with young children.

Newborn to 6 months

• Babies want to hear your voice. They will enjoy when you talk, sing or read with them
• Make eye contact with your baby when possible
• Point to different pictures and name what you see. Talk about the color, sizes, quantity and shapes of things you see
• Babies will enjoy looking at books with other baby’s faces in them
• Babies will not focus on a story the way an older child can. Do not get discouraged if they squirm or are not looking directly at the book. They are still listening
• Babies enjoy high contrast books (black and white)
• Incorporate books into daily routines like nap time, bed time and play time

Ages 6 to 12 months

• Babies may chew on board books, this is how they explore and it is okay
• Continue to name objects and pictures for your baby
• Babies may point or pat pictures on page to show interest
• Babies may say a few words like “ma”, “ba” and “da”
• Books with few words are best

Ages 12 to 24 months

• Children can turn board book pages on their own, let them help
• Continue to name objects and pictures
• Don’t be afraid to use silly voices or make sounds related to the story you are reading. Kids love this

Ages 2 to 3

• Toddlers love to hear the same story again and again
• Toddlers are learning two to four new words per day
• As you read, ask questions about the story and talk about the pictures you see
• Toddlers can turn paper pages, often two or three at a time

Ages 3 to 4

• Children will sit still for longer stories
• Continue to ask questions about the story. If reading a familiar story ask “what happens next”
• Point out numbers and letters
• Ask child what book they want to read or take them to the library to pick out books

Ages 4 to 5 

• Children recognizes letters and numbers
• Help build your child’s social emotional skills by relating the story to their own experiences
• Point out numbers and things to count in the story
• Ask the child to tell you the story
• Kids may want to explore books on their own, which is great. You can continue to ask questions about the stories and offer to read with them, when they want.

One final piece of advice, even if you only share a few minutes per day looking at books or reading aloud, it is okay. It is still time you are spending together and you are helping them make connections and learn.