A children's librarian is helpful in making book selections or choose your own childhood favorites.
Always read the books yourself before you share them with your child. Be familiar with the story because it is more fun for you and your child if you like the book too.
State the title and author of the book. Spend a few minutes talking about the story before you begin reading aloud.
Show enthusiasm before, during and after reading any book. Get involved with and excited about the story. Point to the pictures as you are reading the story in order to emphasize what is happening.
Be dramatic when you read. Change the tone of your voice. Read faster in some places and slower in others. Use different voices for different characters. Help the story come to life!
Interact and involve your child in the story. Read with rather than to you child. show the pictures while you read; have your child point to the pictures, tlak about the story when you are done.
Ask questions such as, "What do you think will happen next?" "What would you do if you were...?" "How do you feel about this story?" This encourages language development and critical thinking.
Read different types of books and literature: poetry, fables, fairy tales, humorous stories, etc. Remember to include books about your culture heritage. There is immeasurable value in learning about one's culture at an early age.
React positively to children's comments with verbal and nonverbal responses.
Have your child sit on your lap or next to you to encourage closeness and security; two conditions of parent/child bonding.