As an educator and home visitor, I am always discussing the importance of reading with the families I work with.  Parents who read to their kids regularly are giving them such an edge academically.  Parents of very young children sometimes get frustrated that their little one won't listen or sit still for the story.  When reading to toddlers, focus on and discuss the pictures.  As they get older and their attention span increases, they will be more likely to sit still for the story.  Check out Reading Together to Build Early Literacy for more on the benefits of reading to your child.

Another tip is to buy books that have little dialogue on the page.  I personally found the early reader books were able to hold my kids attention.  Early readers (or level one books) often have fewer words on the pages and usually have vivid illustrations.  In addition, most  contain rhyming words which is important key in early literacy development.  I found a great blog that offers reviews of children's books.  Check it out at Book Buds.  

Besides getting on my soapbox about the value of reading, I really wanted to share some information with the minti community about a wonderful program called Parents As Teachers.  For those of you who are not familiar with this program, it  works with families whose children are between the ages birth to five.  Through home visits and playgroups, parents learn about their child's development as well as activities that they can do at home to encourage their child's learning.  The program focuses heavily on early literacy skills and includes a book component on all home visits and groups.  As a certified Parent Educator with this program, I must say that the curriculum and information is awesome and the families who participate in the program absolutely love it. 

The Parents as Teachers program is available in most areas nationwide and also has some international programs.  I believe that in most communities, the program is free to participants, but you will want to check with your local office.  In my community, the program is paid for by the local school districts. 

To learn more about the Parents as Teachers program you can go to their www.parentsasteachers.org or click here to find a program in your area.

Copyright © 2006, Jill S. Urbane.  All rights in all media reserved.  The content of this article may be forwarded in full without special permission provided it is used for nonprofit purposes and full attribution and copyright notice are given. For other purposes, please contact Jill Urbane at www.thementormom.com.