Encouraging children to read

It would be hard to overemphasize the importance of literacy in a child's life. Experts say one of the best ways to get young kids turning pages early is to read aloud to them regularly.

Try these tips for engaging youngsters in reading:

•Make reading a habit before bedtime, after lunch or after naptime.

•Snuggle with a child and favorite blanket or toys while reading.

•Look for books that are about things of interest. Does the child like cars, insects or animals?

•Don't be afraid to ham it up when reading. Use different voices for characters. Get comfortable by practicing ahead of time.

•Point to words while reading. Ask children to find specific words or words that have a particular letter.

•Read stories again and again. Children enjoy repetition, and it helps them become familiar with the way stories are organized.

When parents don't have time to sit down with a book, there are other ways to help a child learn how to read and have fun doing it. For instance, hand print labels in a child's room for the chair, table, window or book to help encourage reading. Use labels on clothes, lunchbox, bike or anything else. The key is to get the youngster involved.

One can also make letters out of modeling clay, pipe cleaners or cooked spaghetti. Then use the letters to spell the child's name, names of family members and pets, and other familiar words.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.