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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

About this resource

Setting(s) for which the article is intended:
  • Home
  • Family Child Care
  • Child Care 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