Please read to me! Grandparents and grandchildren connecting with books

Children's books are magical! They are full of wonderful images and often offer some important lessons for children. An easy way for grandparents to connect with their pre-school and elementary age grandchildren is through reading. What are the benefits of reading together?

The most important benefit is having a quiet, special time with your grandchild. Imagine snuggling up with your grandchild in a chair to read. This will help you develop a warm relationship and a common interest.

Reading to children also helps them develop reading readiness. Children will become more familiar with letter sounds, recognize words, and develop a new vocabulary. Your grandchildren will also feel more confident about reading and books when they enter kindergarten.

Here are some tips to help you become your grandchild's favorite reading buddy:

1. Check with your local librarian for recommendations for books that would be appropriate and exciting for your grandchild as well as you!
2. Find a comfortable and quiet location that will be your reading spot.
3. Be positive and enthusiastic!
4. Before you start to read, help your grandchild get excited about the book by doing a "picture walk". Look at the pictures in the book and ask questions. For example, "What is that person doing? Why do you think she is doing that?" "What do you think will happen next?"
5. Have several books available at one sitting in case your grandchild would like to read more than one book.
6. After you read the book, give your grandchild a hug; tell him/her that it was fun reading with them and that you would like to read again on another day.
7. Most of all, enjoy this special time with your grandchild.