Articles - Give him the proper nutrition

Reading is food for your child’s brain!

Children are simply fascinated by sound. That’s why even at a few months old, your child loves to look at pictures and listen to your voice. By watching and listening to you, your child is actually learning how to communicate. So when you open a picture book, point at the pictures and read loudly and animatedly while running your fingers across each word.

You’ve begun to teach your child to read. And reading stimulates your child’s brain. The more you stimulate, the faster he or she learns.

How to nurture your child’s curiosity for reading?

If we could do for reading what playgrounds do for children, we would have a healthy and knowledgeable child. So make reading FUN and ENJOYABLE; like a playground for the mind.

Here are some suggestions:

Read animatedly. The more fun and expressions your child experiences from your reading will leave a good impression that reading is fun and something to look forward to. This also holds their attention longer.
Take turns. Parents should take turns to read every day because your child will enjoy that.
Start simple. Use one word at a time and keep the word simple. Then add on to the word slowly. Repeat the word and point to the picture for faster word association.
Add variety. Read different stories. By doing this you will also learn what your child likes.
Repeat the story. Be prepared to read the same story a couple of times. You may get bored but if your child has a favourite, don’t discourage his or her interest.
Make it a habit. Set aside some time in the evening or before your child sleeps, to read him or her a story.
Reduce TV time. Instead of switching on the TV to distract your child, place a book in front of him or her.
Explore. For slightly older children, take them to a bookstore or library where they can enjoy the different atmosphere that these places have to offer.
Important! Learn what your child likes. Find out what kind of stories appeals to your child and read it to him or her.

Did you know?

Who is your child’s first teacher? Well, it is you!

Creative Tip

As your child develops and begins to recognize things, print out a photo of your child and write his or her name under it. Spell and say the name! Do this often and before you know it, the first thing your child can read will be his or her very own name!

For parents with older children

If you are looking at this article for the first time and you already have older children, don’t worry. It’s never to late to inculcate this good habit as your child is still at a very curious age and teachable stage.

But more importantly, remember, reading is also a very good way of spending quality time with your little one. Little doses of reading no matter when you start go a long way. Enjoy it!

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