Tips for Reading Aloud 

1. Choose books that are fun to read.
2. Read the book to yourself before reading out loud. Try changing voices for different characters.
3. Have children predict what the story is about by reading the title and looking at the artwork.
4. Read 15-30 minutes. If you finish sooner, read it again. Kids love repetition.
5. Use dress-ups, puppets, hats or whatever the story suggests. Read with enthusiasm.
6. Follow along with your finger, especially for stories that are long.
7. Always try to read a bit above the child’s level to stretch the imagination and comprehension, and develop vocabulary.
8. After you finish the book, discuss the story and ask what might happen next. Which characters are most like them? What situations have they faced that are similar?

Questions to ask while reading out loud

(During the story, stop several times and ask questions designed to encourage discussion)

1. What do you think might happen next?
2. What would you do if you were the character in the story.
3. What will you remember about the story tomorrow or when you tell it to someone else?
4. What do you like best about the story?
5. What new ending could you make up for the story?
6. What character did you like best? Why?
7. What new words did you hear or learn?
8. What words rhyme with your new words?

Additional Resources

Check out the Get Ready to Read! program at www.getreadytoread.orgfor additional early literacy and learning tips for children of all ages. They offer newsletters, videos, tool kits, and other useful resources for parents.