Book Week is not just for big kids. How to engage babies and toddlers at storytime
Try funny voices, point out objects you know and don’t worry if your child would rather just sit on the book.
Book Week offers an opportunity to foster a love of reading in babies and toddlers. However, very young children may not be fully engaged during storytime. They might become distracted, restless, or more interested in the book than the story itself. To make the most of storytime with babies and toddlers, it's essential to keep sessions short and focused. Research indicates that reading to children for at least 11 minutes daily can significantly improve their vocabulary skills before starting school.
Engaging babies aged one to two years old in storytime is best done individually, focusing on their interests and daily routines. Point to pictures and ask related questions, such as "What's that?" to help them develop an understanding of the world around them. If a baby becomes restless, it's okay to stop and move on to another activity.
When selecting books for babies, choose ones that they can interact with, such as those with flaps or different textures. Stories featuring familiar aspects of their lives, like eating, bathing, or playing with siblings, tend to capture their attention more effectively. Additionally, books with simple rhymes and repetition can help maintain a baby's interest.
For toddlers aged two to three years, keeping storytime dynamic is key. Use various voices, sound effects, and gestures to emphasize different characters, emotions, and moments. Utilize puppets and soft toys to act out the story and add a new dimension. Explain the meaning behind unfamiliar words or pictures to help toddlers understand the characters' feelings and actions.
Reading favorite picture books repeatedly allows toddlers to gain new insights over time. Encourage them to engage in imaginary play inspired by their favorite books to bring stories to life.
Ultimately, selecting books that resonate emotionally with both parents and children is crucial. Consider picture books by authors like Alison Lester, Rosemary Wells, Julia Donaldson, Helen Oxenbury, Martin Waddell, and Janet and Allan Ahlberg. These stories are both funny and wise, enriching the lives of babies, toddlers, and families. For parents seeking guidance, local libraries often host storytime events for young children and parents, offering a wealth of picture books to explore.
Written by urgent.news from The Conversation AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
