Does your toddler or preschooler only want to read “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” even though you have offered her so many other books? Everyone with a toddler/preschooler has gone through this. It might drive you a little crazy, but children love rituals and repetition because it makes them feel safe.
The good news is that repetition allows for increased opportunities to learn vocabulary and concepts, especially rare words. According to Jim Trelease, author of The Read Aloud Handbook, Children’s books have 30 rare words per thousand, while typical conversations between and adult and a three-year-old child contain 9 words per thousand.
How can you build on repeated readings?
- Take a closer look at the pictures. Point out things about the picture that your child may not have noticed (e.g. “Look, the ball rolled away). You may find something different during each reading!
- Relate the story to your child’s life (e.g. “He has a blue blankie just like you!”)
- Ask your child what is going to happen next before you turn the page. You know he knows because you have read the book 1000 times, but this gives him an opportunity to use the rich language he has been soaking up.
But I Just Can’t Read That Book One More Time!
You can build on your child’s interests by offering books by the same author or that are about similar topics! Remember, this too shall pass, and in the meantime, try to find new ways to mix it up with that very familiar beloved book!
Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center has locations in the Iowa City, IA area and Des Moines, IA area. We provide individual speech-language therapy and tutoring as well as offering small group academic programs. At Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center our passion is to help kids achieve effective communication skills and gain academic success. Contact us for more information on how we can help your child succeed.
info@enrichmenttherapies.com
740 Community Drive, Unit A
North Liberty, IA 52317
319-626-2553
infodm@enrichmenttherapies.com
5530 West Pkwy, Suite 300
Johnston, IA 50131
515-419-4270
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