There are five things you can do with your baby to help teach them the skills they’ll need later to read and write. Not only will these boost your baby’s understanding of language and set them up to read, but they’ll also help you with the bonding process too.
Talk – Having conversations with your baby or young child gives them a chance to practice their social skills and try out the new words they have learned. Use words your baby or child understands and include details like colours, shapes, and feelings.
Read – read early and read often! Even just five minutes a day is enough for young children. If you don’t read the words on the page, talk to your baby about what you can see in the pictures. You can ask questions about the story to toddlers and pre-schoolers.
Sing – Many parents sing the songs their parents sang to them. Songs, music, and dancing help your baby to learn new words and recognise patterns. Songs and books that rhyme are especially good.
Play – Children learn best when they can play and experiment. “Open-ended” play with things like blocks, dolls, and household objects help your baby or toddler to discover new things for themselves.
Write - Help your baby wave hello and goodbye or clap along to songs. These develop those little finger muscles that your baby will need to write.