Teaching reading

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 259, 18 October 1988, Page 6

Teaching reading

New Zealand is recognised internationally for its success in helping young people to learn to read. We are ..."the most literate country in the world," according to Ken Goodman, Professor of Education, at the University of Arizona.

Reading begins at home Reading to your preschooler is fun - and important. "Children who have learnt to love books before they come to school will find it easier to learn to read" says Ro Griffiths of the Department of Education. Reading to your preschooler can provide special moments throughout the day. Reading tirfte is cuddle time - and time to explore the world of Peter Rabbit, Max and his Wild Things, Harry the dirty dog, and M r Gumpy and his friends. Dorothy Butler, author of "Babies Need Books", writes "It is my belief that there is no 'parents' aid' which can compare with the book in its capacity to establish and maintain a relationship with a child. It's effects extend far beyond the covers of the actual book, and invade every aspect of life". Here are some tips to help you help your child to get the most out of reading. When to begin? As early as you can. At bath-time, bottletime, bedtime or in the park, take every chance to introduce new sounds, shapes and colours, Start to read them picture books, sing nursery rhymes and jingles, and talk to them. Surround them with language. Quality time Make reading time special for you and your child. Turn off the radio and television, take the phone off the hook, and put your feet up. Ten minutes of reading relaxation several times a day will be something that you enjoy as much as your child. Reading •••••••••••••

is not something for bedtime alone. Choosing the books Your local library can help you to choose suitable books for your child's age, ability and interest. Ask the children's librarian for help. There are hundreds of beautiful picture books for children - and you've got many years to get through them. Your child will also help you choose the

books to read. Favourite books will be brought out for you to read time and time again. Make sure you choose some as well as the child. Set an exarnple Show your child that you enjoy books too. Children love to copy - they will want to do what you do! Let them see you spending some quiet time with a book and they'll soon be bringing out their own. Don't stop reading to your child when he or she starts school. Set aside some time in the evening or at bedtime - and use it for a story. Children will enjoy Turn page 7

Teaching reading

From page 6 being read to right through primary and intermediate school. You can choose books which may be too difficult for your child to read easily - but which he or she will find interesting listening. Your reading aloud helps to keep your child's vocabulary and imagination alive. Many public libraries also have available cassette tapes of popular childrens' books. These can also be a good way of introducing your child to new books. Teaching Reading New Zealand schools have an excellent international reputation for teaching reading. Teachers in many parts of the United States, Canada and Australia are interested in the way we teach reading the books that are published by the Department of Education. In the Ready to Read series you will meet some rugged New Zealand characters - like the Greedy Cat. Encourage your children to read to you. Show interest in their choice of books, and discuss the stories with them. Children who are h a v ing reading difficulties after their first year at school are helped by the school Reading Recovery pro-

gramme. If you think your child is having difficulty reading, talk to his or her teacher. Keep it fun The most important thing to remember is to keep reading fun. Reading takes people through the looking glass into new worlds. Make sure your child enjoys the journey. References "Babies Need Books" by Dorothy Butler (Bodley Head) "Reading Begins at Home" by Dorothy Butler & Marie Clay (Heineman) "On the Way to Reading" - Department of Education 1979.