- Set aside a specific time each day in a quiet environment.
- Read aloud to the child from a variety of books.
- Discuss the characters, events, and plot sequence of the story.
- Encourage the child to retell the story in his/her own words.
- Predict and discuss possible alternate endings.
- Reread favourite stories.
- Encourage the child to read along or to "echo-read" a sentence after you read it.
- Use "oral cloze" during the reading. Let the child fill in words you omit to check on his/her understanding.
- Encourage the child to notice certain words by being aware of initial sounds, the shape of words and rhyming patterns.
- Take time to write notes to each other. Add a little written message in a lunchbox or backpack.
- Provide the child with a notebook for drawing, writing words and stories.
You may also record thoughts and stories for the child being his/her secretary!
Remember - Reading is Fun!