Book Fair & Early Literacy
Little Land recently hosted a Book Fair! It's no secret that we are advocates for early literacy and, wherever possible, exposing young children to reading and books. The book fair was one opportunity to introduce our children and families to new books to enjoy!
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"Do you read to your child? Why is it important?"
Children learn to love the sound of language before they even notice the existence of printed words on a page. An infant can look at pictures at just a few months of age, listen to your voice, and point to objects on cardboard pages. By drawing attention to pictures and associating the words with both pictures and real-world objects, your child will learn the importance of language. When the rhythm and melody of language become a part of a child's life, learning to read will be as natural as learning to walk and talk.
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Reading books stimulates children's imagination and expands their understanding of the world. It helps them develop language and listening skills and prepares them to understand the written word. It is also an excellent opportunity for them to interpret, predict, anticipate and participate in the adventure.
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Reading provides a wonderful opportunity for you and your child to connect. It's a nice way to spend time together and slow down during an otherwise hectic day. Reading can support a solid parent-child relationship. Children feel secure when they're read to. Plus, caregivers with a positive attitude toward books and reading will positively help their children view literacy.
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Reading to young children can also teach them how to cope with "difficult or stressful experiences". Experts explain that reading stories about potentially emotional situations, like starting at a new school, can help get a conversation going and show children that their feelings are normal.
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Even after children learn to read by themselves, it's still important for you to read aloud together. By reading stories that are on their interest level, but beyond their reading level, you can stretch young readers' understanding and motivate them to improve their skills.
