Encouraging an interest in books is probably the best single thing you can do for your child, so read to her often; her attention span is increasing now, and she will be able to listen to stories with sustained interest. Words are crucial to the way our brains work; they are our main means of communicating, and they form the bases for everything your child will learn in school. Books will provide your child with new words and new ideas, and will explain to her how the world works.
Reading to your child: Even after your child has begun to read for herself, reading to her will be a very valuable time of sharing and learning.
Let your child know that you regard reading as a pleasure. Have plenty of books in the house and make it clear to your child that they are all available for her to look at. Store her own books on low shelves where she can easily browse through them.
Choose books for your child that are visually appealing; first reading books should be short, with only a few pages, and should have large illustrations, large print, and a simple vocabulary. Be willing to read your child’s favorite books over and over again; she’ll eventually memorize the words, and when she is ready to start reading herself, the familiar words will be easier to recognize.
