Frequently asked questions
The Frequently Asked Questions (as shown below) are available in a printable version.
These frequently asked questions are also available in the following languages:
In the future we are planning to add some more details about choosing books, so please visit again.
Why should you read with your young child?
- Reading is a vital part of your child's development. Reading
aloud with your young child helps develop the skills that are
needed when he or she starts school. You are not trying to “teach”
your young child to read before they begin school but you are
helping him or her to develop a love of books. Your child will
understand how a book works and get to know how much fun they
can be.
- Reading aloud is also a time when you can bond with your child.
The pictures and the words in the book will give you lots of
things to talk about, laugh about, have fun with, while you
share some special time together.
When should you begin to read with your young child?
- There is no specific age to begin but the earlier the better.
Some say that reading to young children should begin soon after
birth, while others say it should start around 4 to 6 months
when babies have a degree of head control and can be propped
in your lap.
- Your baby will love being held in your arms, listening to
your voice, and sharing the pictures in the book, so start as
early as possible.
How often should young children be read to?
- There is no magic figure about how long or how often. Young
children do like routines so developing an everyday reading
routine is suggested. This can be part of a bedtime routine,
however you may find that your child will choose books and share
reading at any time of the day, just because they like it.
How do I get my young child involved?
- Your young child does like the sound of your voice, so turn
off the TV and radio so your child can hear your voice. They
will also be less distracted, and can focus on the book you
are sharing with them.
- Sit your child close or on your knee so that you are both
comfortable, and can clearly see and touch the book. Encourage
your child to point to things in the book, and let them turn
the pages.
- Let your child choose the books to read. They may like to
have the same book read over and over, because they will know
what comes next and can be more involved. Imagine how good your
child will feel about themselves when he or she tells you the
word that finishes the sentence or describes what is going to
happen next. Their interests will change as they grow, so it
is easier to let them choose the book and they will share with
you what they are interested in.
- Play games and have fun. You can use the book to get started
on lots of different activities. Your young child will like
being moved to the rhythm of the book, or doing actions to match
the book. There are many stories that are actually songs. Your
child will love to sing along to the story.
- Ask questions and point to things in the book. Help your child
to explore what they see in the book. Ask him or her to show
and tell you about things they like, things they have seen before,
the colours they see, and count the things on the page.
- Join the library. Make visiting the library part of the adventure
of books. Your child will have fun selecting the books and they
will have lots to choose from. You may also be able to go to
“read aloud” sessions at the library. This shows
your child that there are many people who love reading and you
can have lots of fun.
