reading
Reading together is the best way to help your child become a strong reader.
Game: Shining the Spotlight
Related to: Telling a Story, Read
Retell a favourite story using your child's name...
Story: Key to the Kingdom
Related to: Telling a Story, Read
Jennifer shows everyone how they hold the “key to the kingdom” with this interactive story.
Game: Fun Family Fort Night
Related to: Liking Books, Read
Make a fort at home using pillows and blankets...
reading Tips
- It's not surprising that children will love to read if they love what they're reading. Follow your child's developing interests. Share picture books, informational books and true stories with your child based on what excites them.
- Children who enjoy books will want to learn to read. Enjoying books together every day is the first step toward developing a love of reading. Start the day your child is born. Positive, fun and playful experiences with books and stories foster a desire to read and encourage your child to keep trying to read.
- Even as a baby, your child will start to learn that printed words have meaning. Use every opportunity to read aloud. While walking or driving, point to and talk about street signs, traffic signs and billboards. Praise your child when she recognizes words like “Stop” on stop signs or “Open” in shop windows. Point out labels while shopping.
Six skills that get your child ready for reading
Liking Books
Children who enjoy books will want to learn to read.
Hearing words
Hearing the smaller sounds in words helps children sound out written words.
Knowing words
Knowing many words helps children recognize written words and understand what they read.
Telling a story
Learning to tell a story helps children develop skills in thinking and understanding.
Seeing words
Familiarity with printed language helps children feel comfortable with books and reading.
Knowing letters
Knowing the names and sounds of letters helps children sound out words.
Dial-a-Story
Call 416-395-5400 anytime and listen to stories in 16 different languages.
Raising Confident Kids
A series of workshops for parents and caregivers.
Storytime at Home
Fun virtual storytimes filled with great books, rhymes and songs. Watch anytime on YouTube and sing along!