reading
Reading together is the best way to help your child become a strong reader.
Game: Shining the Spotlight
Related to: Telling a Story, Read
Retell a favourite story using your child's name...
Story: Key to the Kingdom
Related to: Telling a Story, Read
Jennifer shows everyone how they hold the “key to the kingdom” with this interactive story.
Game: Fun Family Fort Night
Related to: Liking Books, Read
Make a fort at home using pillows and blankets...
reading Tips
- Read books with your child often. Any book with words helps develop print awareness because your child learns to recognize print, how books work and how we use them. Let your child hold the book and turn the pages of the book as they “read” to you or as you read together.
- While reading, point to a word that interests your child and point to words that are repeated as you read them. Run your child’s finger underneath the words as you read or, using a book that your child knows well, ask him to point to the words as you read them.
- Gain knowledge together by reading books on many different topics. Non-fiction or information books use different words than those used in stories. Exposing your child to new information, science and math concepts improves her reading comprehension.
Six skills that get your child ready for reading
Liking Books
Children who enjoy books will want to learn to read.
Hearing words
Hearing the smaller sounds in words helps children sound out written words.
Knowing words
Knowing many words helps children recognize written words and understand what they read.
Telling a story
Learning to tell a story helps children develop skills in thinking and understanding.
Seeing words
Familiarity with printed language helps children feel comfortable with books and reading.
Knowing letters
Knowing the names and sounds of letters helps children sound out words.
Dial-a-Story
Call 416-395-5400 anytime and listen to stories in 16 different languages.
Raising Confident Kids
A series of workshops for parents and caregivers.
Storytime at Home
Fun virtual storytimes filled with great books, rhymes and songs. Watch anytime on YouTube and sing along!