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Sharing a book with your baby or toddler is a terrific way to bond, plus it helps build important early literacy skills, such as listening, growing vocabulary and understanding.

S - Snuggle with your child

H - Help your child turn pages and point to pictures

A - Ask your child questions about the story

R - Respond to your child’s comments

E - Enjoy this special bonding, brain-building time together!

You can help by looking together at the pictures and pointing out a few things – ask your child to turn the page or point to the flowers. Encourage your child with questions and respond to what she says. Help your child expand his thoughts by asking “wh” questions, such as “Where is the dog?’ or ‘What does a dog say?” Don’t forget, it’s okay to be silly and playful and know that your child may only interact with a few pages of the book at a time. You’ll be surprised at all the talking you’ll do and the fun you’ll have together!

Reading to and with your elementary school-age child is the single most important thing you can do to improve school success.

R - Remember to mention the title, author and illustrator

E - Explain confusing words and concepts

A - Ask your child questions about the story

D - Discuss the story during and after reading

It helps your child develop enthusiasm for reading and increase reading growth, among other benefits. It’s important to read and reread well-loved stories, as well as new books that are beyond your child’s current reading level. This will teach your child many new words and help her understand how complex stories evolve and how fluent reading sounds. Discussing stories improves comprehension and helps young children recognize how to “read between the lines.” Just pause every once and awhile and talk about the story based on what you’re thinking or what your child is saying. Discussing stories helps improve vocabulary, relate stories to real life experiences and grow critical thinking skills.