Having books at home is critical for children’s learning. Books alone, however, will not improve learning outcomes. Books must be accompanied by guidance to caregivers that increase use and encourage supportive practices (such as reading to children and with children). Parents and other caregivers are children’s first teachers. Importantly, all caregivers—even those who are busy, cannot read, or are not accustomed to engaging with children—can play a critical role in helping children learn to read. The following activities are suggestions of how families can create a culture of reading in the home:
Find literacy everywhere
Even when books aren’t available in the home, families can look for print elsewhere. When outside, notice road signs, advertisements and billboards, store signs, etc. Children can read food labels when at the store and menus at restaurants.
Show that reading matters by creating a book corner
This is a space in the home where caregivers and family members can sit together to read. Empty boxes can be used to store books and other reading materials next to a bed, chair, or mat, depending on where families have space. Even in families where caregivers cannot read, it is important to show children that reading is important and enjoyable. Creating a culture of reading in the home shows children that books are valuable, and that reading should not be limited to school. Drawings, letters of the alphabet, and new vocabulary words can be stuck to the wall or hung on string attached to windows. The idea is to make a cozy space that is associated with and used for pleasurable reading activities. If books are not available, old newspapers and magazines, religious texts, flyers, or brochures can be used.
Create a habit around reading by setting up a time to read
Mother and daughter reading together. Photo by GBA Partner Save the Children
This is another way to show that reading matters and of setting an example. Routines are important for young children. They help provide structure to a child’s day and give children some guidance on what to expect. Many families read to their children before bedtime, but each family should determine what time that works for them within their daily routine. Older siblings can also read to younger ones and if the family has a radio, some countries broadcast a story hour; this can become part of the routine.
Ask questions
Talking and engaging children in conversation develops oral language and listening skills, both core skills in reading development. Ask children what happened in school, what they learned, to retell a story. Open-ended questions-those that do not have a ‘right’ answer—are best.