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Get Ready to Read

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
  • Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this tip sheet are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC).

About this resource

Setting(s) for which the article is intended:
  • Home
  • Family Childcare
  • Childcare Center
  • Preschool Program
  • Kindergarten

Intended audience(s):
  • Parents / Family
  • Teachers / Service providers

Age Levels (the age of the children to whom the article applies):
Related IEL Birth to Three Guidelines:
Related Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards:
Reviewed: 2018