It is almost impossible to overstate the benefits of reading. Whether it is increasing your pre-schooler’s knowledge, creativity, imagination, vocabulary or language structure, reading brings it all together.

Raising a reader is not only rewarding, but can be a whole lot of fun for both parent and the child. Some simple inclusions in your everyday routine can go a long way in helping your pre-schooler foster a love for reading.

Make the time to read aloud to your child every day: Bedtime reading routines are perfect for a warm, cosy, reading and bonding time with your young one. It can be almost therapeutic when the ambience is calm and soothing, as you unwind together while putting your child to bed. However, don’t let the opportunity to read during the day slip you by, either. Offer to read books to your child during the day, sit close and enjoy the moments of joyful reading.

Choose books carefully: Respect your child’s tastes and introduce books that resonate the child’s interest. It could be trucks, fairies, animals, cars or anything else. At the same time, gradually steer your child towards diverse kind of books allowing him/her to experience a balanced menu of characters and genres. Encourage your child to express what she/he likes about the books as you read together.

Ask, interact and engage as you read along: When reading a book to your pre-schooler, enjoy the process and the experience. Make reading mutually satisfying and a time of pleasure and relaxation. Engage the child by pointing at the pictures and invite him/her to explain or narrate what is illustrated. Allow the child to turn the pages and set the pace for your reading. Ask questions that help the child make connections between his/her world and the book. Interruptions show that the child is involved and actively participating in the reading.

At Vivero, we work closely with our parents, as they engage with their children, not only to support them as they learn to read, but work towards building a lifetime of love for the world of books.

Our Reading Program is one such initiative, through which we empower our parents to be the catalysts in the reading journey of our children. We believe that building a positive association with books and reading will go a long way in helping you get closer to your most important job which is more profound: to foster a love for reading.