Read Aloud Primer

 

There is no right or wrong way to read aloud. But here are a few tips -

 

1. Show them Joy - how much you love reading and exploring with them

 

2.  Slow it Down - no rush, listening speed differs from reading speed

 

3.  Modulate your Voice - read with gusto, emotion, imitate or maybe sing

 

3.  Let Words Flow - but linger over great illustrations or key story lines

 

4.  Avoid the Didactic - no need to feel obligated to teach here

 

5.  Awaken Awareness - discover and encourage what moves them

 

6.  Relate to Characters - pretend they’re family, friends, or the child themself

 

7.  Share Your World View - pass along values, culture, and customs

 

8.  Keep It Going - read to them even when they can read on own

 

9.  Be Yourself - okay to use every day phrasing and vernaculars, even slang 

 

10. Read Stories Over and Over - kids love repetition

 

11. Reading Skills not Required - undo any page to record it again until you get it right

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12. Let them Choose - leave space for their making their own story selections

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13. Fiddling is More than OK -  little hands sometimes need to keep busy while reading and listening

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14. Chat Away - maybe ask open ended questions to start a conversation

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