Reading to a child is such a tremendous help in getting him or her off to a flying start
with reading, and in just 10 minutes a day parents can be super effective in preparing their
children for literacy success.

However, many parents are not sure of what to do during a reading time, and a wrong
approach could lead to frustration or annoyance. What should be a terrific time together
could even be counterproductive! That is not helpful for anybody, and so the following
seven tips have been prepared to help parents make this time together highly effective.

1. If possible, visit a library together. You can select some books, but let your child select
some also.

2. Before reading, look at some of the pictures, and talk about them. Depending on their
age you could ask a few questions such as: * Who are the people (or animals) in this
picture?

* Do you know any people (or animals) like that?

* What do you think this story will be about?

* What's happening in this picture?

* What do you think will happen next?

3. As you read through the book, give your child enough time to look at each picture.

4. If there are some repetitive chants, encourage your child say those with you.

5. After finishing the book, talk about the story or ask you child what part or picture they
liked best.

6. A great idea is to always have some books with you in the car so that when visiting or
at the doctors you will be able to have an impromptu reading session.

7. Above all, focus on masking it an enjoyable time together.

If you start early enough, there is no reason why you won't be able to read 1000 books to
your child before they start school. Then when they do start school they will be so well
prepared, your child's teacher will thank you, and you will have played a tremendous part
in establishing the foundations of literacy and educational success in your child.

It only takes 10 minutes a day. You can do it!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Wayne and Jenny Gillie are parents and school teachers, and have established www.buildkidsconfidence.com as a resource for parents and teachers who want to improve the self confidence of their children or students.