STLMoms Parents As Teachers Tip: Reading To Your Children

One of the best resolutions you can make as a parent is to read to your young child every day in the coming year, says the National Center for Parents as Teachers. It's never too early to start reading to your child, and reading can take place at various times in various places just by taking advantage of the opportunities around you.

Try these tips to make reading to your child a fun part of your daily activities:

* READ A STORY AT BEDTIME EVERY NIGHT. This is a relaxing routine that also gives you and your child a time to bond.


* ATTEND STORY TIME. Your local library or book store often holds story time events regularly. These events can help you find age-appropriate books for home, show you creative ways to use books with your child, and provide children's reading activities.

* LET OTHER RELATIVES AND FRIENDS READ, TOO. Getting others involved with reading to your child shows that reading is a fun activity that everyone can enjoy.

* READ WHAT'S AROUND YOU. Reading goes beyond books. When you're waiting at the doctor's office, the grocery store, or in traffic, point out and read signs, lists, menus or labels that you see. This shows how reading is important in everyday life.

For more parenting tips like these, visit www.ParentsAsTeachers.org.