How to Read With a Squiggly Baby (or Toddler!)

Parents know they should read with their child every day. But reading together requires that your baby or toddler will actually sit still long enough for a book! If you've got a squiggler in your house, see if these tips help your reading time go a little more smoothly.

Read before bed, but don't wait too long!

Really tired little ones have a harder time focusing their attention. It may help to pull out your books before the bath, or right after dinnertime. If your child is too tired to read, don't force it. Keep book times happy times.

Choose fun, brightly colored books

The most engaging books for little ones have lots of bright, big pictures. Board books, the ones with stiff cardboard pages, are great for little hands to hold.

Sing along, or have some rhyme time

Books meant to be sung, or books written in rhyme, mean that you and your child get to clap along, sing along, and bounce up and down to the rhythm of the language. The fun physical involvement will keep your child interested in reading.

Be expressive!

Don't worry, no one is listening! As you read the book, change your voice for each character. Say loud words LOUDLY and soft words softly. Add hand gestures and foot stomping to go along with the story.

Keep your favorites by your side

Your child will begin to develop favorite storytime books. Plan to read those books until the pages fall out! The repeated, enjoyable experience of reading favorite books goes a long way toward developing good reading habits.

Help your child develop a reading habit

It's important to recognize that reading with a really young child looks and sounds different than reading with an older child. It's louder, with more action and movement. That's okay! The simple interaction with you, your child, and a book sends a powerful message about reading.