Read it right
Common mistakes to avoid when reading a kids book
READING
12/1/20241 min read
Mistakes to Avoid When Reading a Kids Book
Choosing the right books can be confusing. reading strategies is key to fostering a love of reading in children. Here are a few things to avoid when selecting books or reading aloud to kids:
Don’t Ignore Questions
When a child asks, "What does ---- mean?", don’t brush off the question. Encouraging these questions gives your child confidence in the learning process. Kids are more capable of understanding complex words and ideas than we often give them credit for. They may need help decoding or sounding out a specific word. Taking the time to explain words or concepts helps build their vocabulary and comprehension skills.
Don’t Choose Books That Are Too Simple
Choosing the right book for your child can be confusing.
While it’s tempting to choose books that are easy for your child to understand, don’t be afraid to challenge them with stories that have a little more depth. Books that are too simplistic may not engage their imagination or help develop their language skills, they may also feel bored and unmotivated and as result they will not want to explore new books. Seek a balance with books that introduce new ideas and vocabulary, while still being age-appropriate.
Don’t Interrupt When a Child Is Reading on Their Own
When a preschooler is reading on their own, resist the urge to correct or interrupt them constantly. By allowing them to pretend-read it helps them internalize the skills. It’s natural for young children to mimic the way books are read to them, and this imitation is a vital step in their literacy development. Give them the space to practice turning pages and notice the flow of a story- they are building foundational reading skills.
Pretending to read also shows that your child is motivated to engage with books and will eventually transition into real reading when they're ready.
By avoiding these common mistakes and offering the right kind of support, you can help foster a deeper connection with books and a love of reading that lasts a lifetime.