Encouraging Reading

Reading is a much needed skill that is fundamental in the foundation for knowledge.  There are many ways to encourage reading and to get the most out of reading lessons.  The best way to introduce young children to reading is by reading out loud to them.  Reading out loud is beneficial to any age group of children as it increases their vocabulary.  It is also important to recite the book with enthusiasm.  Alter your tone to fit different events and moods in the story and use unique voices for various characters.  This extra effort will engage children and keep them excited and interested in the story.  Encouraging preschoolers to write their own books can also be helpful.  If the children are too young to write, have them create their own story with cut-out pictures and drawings assembled into a book.  

It is also helpful to fill your classroom with reading references such as alphabet charts, letter drawings and picture labels.  Labeling is a very useful way to cultivate good readers.  Label lockers, supplies, and many of the items in your classroom to have reading continuously represented and reinforced.  Labeling lockers with the children’s names also encourages reading and instills pride in kids.   All of these items should be placed at the eye level of children so they can easily be seen.

Wood Designs provides Listening Centers which are instrumental in learning.  These desks are designed with upper compartments to store books and audio devices.  This allows children to listen and follow along in a book to improve their reading skills.  

Visit www.WoodDesigns.com to view our Listening and Writing Centers and various sizes of book displays to encourage reading in your classroom!