Reading to Teach or Teaching to Read, are you Raising a Reader?
By Aparna Nambiar
‘In the light of the moon a little egg lay on a leaf,’ so begins The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. Some words just remain etched in our memories from reading picture books growing up or being read to growing up. The book never ceases to amaze young children who despite knowing the lines well enough to repeat, still love the surprise ending.
Through words, illustrations, and messages, the power of being read aloud to is immense. It builds memories and creates a bond that is cherished by anyone who has had the experience. It is this positively warm feeling that led me to make it an integral part of my classroom since the start of my teaching career. I read to my children, and I encourage them to read.
I like to keep a variety of books in my class and enjoy selecting books as much as I enjoy reading them aloud. As parents, caregivers, and teachers we have a crucial role to play in the experiences we provide for children to develop. The market is inundated with books, and it is often the books based on the movies and television shows that grow to be favorites. Here are some things I like to keep in mind when selecting a book.
To make the best of the reading experience, look for books that are age appropriate. It keeps them engaged when they can comprehend the idea in the story. Check for writing that appeal to the children, such as books with repetitive texts, rhyming words, or even tongue twisters. The Napping House by Audrey Wood is among my favorites. They develop language in young readers and listeners. We’re going on a Bear Hunt is another favorite among my children. You could even try a book without words!
Does the book have simple and attractive pictures that look realistic? This is another criterion that I like to look for. Books with paintings, photographs, and illustrations that the children identify with encourage them to go back to them over and over. The Snowy Day by Erza Jack Keats earned Jack Keats a Caldecott medal for his simple illustrations.
I like to choose books that avoid stereotypes. Gender roles and biased messages portrayed in books influence young readers. Choosing unique personalities, abilities, or jobs can inspire young children as can stories from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Children form impressions of themselves and the society through books and the stories they come across. Looking for books that reflect a realistic portrayal of society and asking the right questions to hear what they think of the book become enjoyable conversation opportunities with your children and help you understand what they have absorbed from the books.
Here’s to raising a great reader!
Aparna Nambiar
Aparna is a Montessori Primary Teacher in California. Her passion for learning led to her journey in education. She enjoys writing and storytelling for children and published articles and a picture book series. She shares her passion in education with the children in her Montessori environment.
