Collaborative Practice - Save the Children: Book Sections and Content

Advantages of reading to your child:

Many mums and dads have discovered that spending just 10 minutes of focussed reading
time a day can make a world of difference, not only to your child, but also to YOU!

• It promotes increased communication between you and your child.
• It promotes longer attention span, which is an important skill for your kid to be able to concentrate.
• It builds listening skills and imagination.
• Books teach your child thinking skills early. When you read to your child, they learn to understand cause and effect, they learn to exercise logic, as well as think in abstract terms. They learn the consequences of their actions, and the basics of what is right and wrong.

Finding the right reading level:

Many young children struggle with reading because they are introduced to books which are too hard for them. Every child develops at their own speed so try to be patient, looking for stories which give yours just the right level of challenge. 

Why not try: 

• Encouraging your child to choose a book they want to read – books with pictures are often

the best to help them gain confidence. 

• Asking your child’s teacher about the types and level of book that will best suit their level of reading.

• Reading harder books to them if they want to hear more complex stories, but letting them read the easy bits.

• Reading their favourite book again and again with them. Repetition helps your son or daughter learn new words.

Create a Routine

Creating a regular ‘special time’ to read together can help younger children see the magical world that can be unlocked by the opening of a book, comic or magazine and learn to love the time when they have your undivided attention.

Why not try:
• Building a regular story time into your child’s bedtime routine. 

• Switching off the TV and your mobile to read with them. 

• Resist the urge to tidy their room or do the washing up and give them your time to sit and read together. 

• Telling them about a book or story you liked when you were a child. You may be able to find a copy!

• Making up a story or telling them about when you were a child or something that happened to you at school – remember you don’t always need a book to tell a good story.