Brandon Twp.- Parents may roll their eyes when their child asks for Mom or Dad to read them the same story yet again, but Margaret Sclesky says the repetition of these tales are essential for children.
She will relate why during ‘Reading with Preschoolers,? a free program for parents and caregivers including teachers and daycare providers, planned for 6:30-8:30 p.m., Jan. 26, at the library, 304 South St.
‘Parents think, ‘OK, I’ve read that book five times, but they are going to learn the importance of rereading it 55 times,? said Sclesky, lead hub trainer with Oakland Family Services and program presenter. ‘We will also talk about using flannel boards and props to make reading come alive.?
Her own son was a fan of ‘Brown Bear, Brown Bear,? and she recalls he must have asked her to read it a thousand times. One night, Sclesky asked him to read it to her and he did. While it was rote memorization and not actual reading, the significance was not diminished.
‘It’s more important to teach that books are words, and words have meaning, rather than exactly how to read at that age,? she said. ‘If you just get them to hold the book, and turn the pages, and learn to love the book, you’ve come a long way.?
Parents can not start too early with reading to their child. Even when they do not understand the meaning of the words, they love to hear your voice and the one-on-one time, Sclesky emphasized. The more they are read to, the more kids want to hear stories, especially when the readers become the voice of the mouse or the bear, adding theatrics.
During the program, part of the parenting and caregiver series at the library, participants will also do a make and take to enhance story time for the littlest readers.
Raising a child who loves to read requires exposure to lots of books, but it doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. Sclesky recommends getting kids a library card early on and taking them to the library for storytime. Books can be obtained cheaply at garage sales or library book sales. Let them choose their own books and reread their favorites again and again.
Keep reading, even to a child who doesn’t seem to have the attention span to sit still for a story. Sclesky notes eventually that child will wander over and want to hear, particularly in a classroom setting when he or she sees their friends enjoying a book.
Bedtime, however, is still the best time for a story.
‘They are a captive audience, snuggly, all ready for bed in their pajamas,? said Sclesky.
To register for ‘Reading with Preschoolers,? call 248-627-1462.