Yahoo Lifestyle Storytime with children's author Mem Fox
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As well as being a great way to prepare for bed and have quiet time at any point in the day, sharing a book with your toddler is fantastic for her development. Here are Mem's words of advice on how storytime can help with learning, language, listening and memory skills, just to name a few.
1. Short books are best for toddlers
Choose short books with lots of pictures and lots of rhyme, rhythm or repetition – or a combination of all three. Children learn to love a book more easily through this kind of writing.
2. Read in ‘tune’
Read in the same lively ‘tune’ every single time you read to your child. This will help her to become familiar with, and remember, the story and love books and you!
3. Use storytime as an opportunity to bond
Keep in mind it’s not just about your reading, it’s about your presence that is most important to a child.
4. Choose the right moments
Never try to read to a child who is otherwise happily occupied with an activity.
5. Make storytime part of your toddler’s bedtime routine
Always make reading books with your child the last thing you do each night before you turn the lights out.
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