Toddlers are real little sponges when it comes to learning! They absorb everything, everything, everything that is shown to them. This is the perfect time to stimulate them through reading and writing.
From discovering books to exploring words and phrases, to learning sounds and letters, we offer you practical advice to accompany your children on the enriching adventure of a world where words come to life!
Stimulation is key
Know first of all that it is not necessary to "teach" a child to read or write before school, but that the premises of this learning are done through other activities that can be achieve during the preschool period. This is called awakening to reading and writing, two skills that develop in interrelation, that is to say that learning one stimulates the other.
The stages of awakening to reading and writing
Step 1: The discovery of the books
The first step in early reading is to familiarize children with books. From an early age, it is essential to surround them with books adapted to their level of development. Books with various textures, bright colors and attractive illustrations will captivate their attention and arouse their curiosity. Let them explore the pages, turn the books and manipulate the objects that accompany them.
Step 2: Learning sounds and letters
Once children begin to recognize books as a source of pleasure, it's time to introduce them to sounds and letters. Using educational games, songs and nursery rhymes is a fun way to learn the basics of reading and writing. By regularly exposing them to activities that focus on sounds and letters, you are helping to develop their phonological awareness, a key skill for decoding words.
Step 3: Exploration of words and phrases
As children gain an understanding of sounds and letters, they are ready to explore words and phrases. Simple stories, books on repeat, and puns and rhymes are valuable resources for expanding their vocabulary and developing their understanding of sentence structure. Encourage them to ask questions about the content of the stories, make predictions and tell their own stories.
Stage 4: Development of comprehension and expression
As children progress in learning to read and write, it is important to support the development of their comprehension and expression. Encourage them to discuss the stories they read, share their opinions and thoughts. Ask them open-ended questions to stimulate their critical thinking and ability to formulate clear ideas.
Stage 5: Stimulation of imagination and creativity
The awakening to reading and writing is not limited to the acquisition of technical skills. It is equally essential to stimulate children's imagination and creativity. Encourage them to invent their own stories and characters.
Practical advice to promote early reading
Sometimes it is enough to integrate very small things into our daily lives for our child to awaken to this colorful world. Here are some examples:
- Put books, pictures, photo albums at his disposal from a very young age. These are all tools that “open” the way to communication.
- Read regularly with your children : set aside time each day to share moments of reading with your family. This will strengthen their interest in books and give them an opportunity to develop their understanding.
- Establish the ritual of a daily story and enjoy asking your child questions about what you are telling him. This will stimulate their imagination, memory and vocabulary.
- Create an attractive reading nook : Arrange a cozy space with a well-stocked bookcase, plush cushions and soft light. The warm atmosphere will promote immersion in books.
- Be a role model : Lead by example by reading yourself and sharing your own stories. Children are influenced by what they see and will be more likely to engage in reading and writing if they see you doing it with enthusiasm.
- Encourage creativity : Provide playful writing activities like journaling, creating poems, or performing short plays. Give free rein to their overflowing imagination.
- Visit libraries and bookstores : familiarize your children with these magical places where words come to life. Libraries often provide interactive reading and activities for children, which will enhance their love of reading.
Your daily life is certainly full of opportunities to stimulate your child's curiosity about reading and writing. Put it to use! You will certainly find other great ideas to bring your child into this great adventure that will enrich them all their life!
Picture books, for early language learning and first words
Picture books are perfect companions for toddlers from the age of one, helping them recognize common objects and discover their names. With picture books, the child develops his knowledge of the world around him: he plays with sounds, then learns to name everyday objects, becomes familiar with their representation.
These books, with large illustrations of common objects, capture children's attention and stimulate their curiosity. Each page is an invitation to explore the world around them and name familiar objects such as animals, fruits, toys and more. Toddlers are mesmerized by the bright colors and details of these illustrations, which encourage them to point and try to pronounce the corresponding words.
Picture books are real treasures for toddlers: they are designed in a simple and attractive way, offering a playful learning experience where children can have fun while discovering a world filled with new words and exciting discoveries.
Seek and Find, for the awakening to reading and imagination
Seek and Find books are a great way to incorporate early reading into play activities by providing an immersive experience where words and pictures come together to create moments of fun and discovery for your children.
These captivating books encourage children to understand and recognize the words that refer to the objects to be found on each page. By actively looking for these elements, children develop their sense of observation and strengthen their vocabulary.
In addition, these books offer colorful and richly detailed scenes, featuring a multitude of characters and objects. This encourages children to talk about what they see, describe different situations and tell stories around the illustrations.
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In conclusion, the awakening to reading and writing is an exciting journey that allows children to develop their language skills, explore new worlds and express their ideas. You will help your children cultivate their passion for words and prepare for a future filled with literary discoveries.
Remember that each child develops at their own pace, so be patient and encouraging throughout this wonderful journey!
