Get Ready to Read

Set your young child up for reading and writing by building knowledge, skills, and habits that create a strong foundation for future literacy.

Knowledge

• Build conversation skills through play with peers
• Introduce new words
• Play letter, number, and counting games
• Go on community outings to stores, museums, and parks

Skills

• Talk about the print you see around you
• Write lists
• Enjoy read-aloud books and talk about the pictures you see

Habits

• Ask your child to tell you about what they draw/write
• Choose screen-time activities that encourage learning new words and letters
• Build reading and writing into everyday routines such as bedtime stories and grocery lists

Start early with babies and toddlers

• Name familiar people, places, and things in photos
• Encourage scribbling to build small hand muscles for writing
• Encourage bilingualism by singing songs and reading stories in your family’s heritage language