Barriers and solutions for families

If my child cannot talk why should I be reading with him?

• Speaking and listening are important precursors to reading. Start by talking to your child about things you are interested in, for example you could read out the football scores.
• While out, talk about the things you see when you are on the bus, in the car or walking to the shops.
• In the evenings, chat to your child during bath time, or sing to them while changing their nappy.
• The supermarket is a good place to talk and introduce new words, because your child is sitting in the trolley facing you. Gain their attention and then describe some of the items as you put them in the trolley.
• Try not to ask too many questions. Instead, talk about things, especially the things your child shows an interest in, like a favourite toy.
• For more ideas look at the Talk To Your Baby project.

My child is too young to be looking at books…

• Whatever the age of your child, there are suitable books for them. Look for touchy-feely books with different textures, bath time books or books that make sounds. Have a look at our early years book lists.
• As well as reading the story, talk about the pictures. If there is a picture of a dog, talk about a dog that you know.
• Do not put any pressure on your child to name the pictures, but if they copy your words, praise them and say the words again for them.
• It is good to share favourite books again and again. Repetition helps children to understand and remember the language they hear.
• Do not be embarrassed or shy about using different voices or tones. Your child will be an enchanted audience.
• You could use props, such as puppets or their favourite cuddly toy, to help bring the words alive, and add actions to your words. It all adds to the appeal of spending time together.
• Your child will recognise and enjoy the sound of your voice. At times of distress reading can be very calming, particularly when your voice is coupled with their favourite book or character.
• Remember, you are not teaching your child to read. You learn to talk a long time before you learn to read, and book sharing is a wonderful way to help your child’s language development.
• For more ideas look at the Talk To Your Baby project.

They are more interested in playing and toys than books…

• Toddlers love to play with adults and other children. Games are a great conversation starter and can help to encourage a love of language. By playing with others, children learn about turn-taking, sharing and social interaction.
• Use language in a more active way; sit your baby on your lap facing you and sing one of your favourite songs. It doesn’t matter what song you sing; if you enjoy it, so will your baby. It could be the latest chart-topper, a ballad, or a traditional nursery rhyme. Do not worry if you do not think you sound great; your baby will love to hear your voice, whatever it sounds like.
• Another activity which involves words is cooking. Talk to your child about pictures in the cookery book and look at the recipe too.

They are more interested in the television than books…

• Find books or magazines which are linked to television shows that your child enjoys. Use this as a way to start looking at stories and language with them.
• Talk to your children about the television programmes they are watching, discussion is a brilliant way to help your children love language. You may also discover some of your child’s interests and use this information to help you pick new reading material for them.

I cannot read or write very well, so how will I be able to teach my child?

• Early Reading Connects is not just about reading and writing; speaking and listening are literacy skills too. You can help your child to develop these skills through discussion and conversation.
• To discover more ways to improve your reading and writing, look at the basic skills section (at the base of this page). There are details of organisations which can help.

I do not enjoy reading, I think it is boring

• Reading does not have to involve sitting still and reading a book. You and your child can sing a nursery rhyme, or make up a story while playing with toy figures or puppets.
• If you are going to read a book, have a look at our early years booklists. The books in this list have been handpicked because they are especially enjoyable for children from birth to 5.

If your child enjoys stories and reading, you probably will too, so be inspired by your child. Find out what characters and stories your child likes. You could talk to practitioners who work with children or relations to help you with this.