On the Edge of Literacy: Ways to Help Your Emerging Reader

Do you have a little one at home who is at that exciting stage, just on the verge of reading? If so, there are several things that you can do to assist your emerging reader. One thing that’s really helpful is running your finger under the words as you read them. Your child will likely follow along and pick up lots of information that will help the reading process.

After reading a book, or using one that you’ve read often, have your child “read” you the story. This pretend reading or reading from memory helps your child navigate books and is great practice for the real thing.

Finally, having conversations about the books you read is always helpful. You can talk about the story, re-read favorite parts, and discuss new vocabulary words that were introduced in the book.

If you want to find some great books for beginning readers, we have a whole section at the library that’s full of emergent readers. Stop by, and we’ll be happy to show you where you can find them!