Toddlers are real little sponges when it comes to learning! They absorb everything, everything, everything you show them. This is the ideal time to stimulate them through reading and writing.
From discovering books to exploring words and sentences, to learning sounds and letters, we offer practical advice to accompany your children on the enriching adventure of a world where words come to life!
Stimulation is the key
First of all, it's not necessary to "teach" a child to read or write before school, but the premises for this learning are provided by other activities that can be carried out during the preschool period. This is what we call the awakening to reading and writing, two skills that develop in interrelation, meaning that learning one stimulates the other.
Stages in the development of reading and writing skills
Step 1: Discovering the books
The first step in introducing children to reading is to familiarize them with books. From an early age, it's essential to surround them with books that are adapted to their developmental level. Books with varied textures, bright colors and attractive illustrations will captivate their attention and arouse their curiosity. Let them explore the pages, turn the books and manipulate the accompanying objects.
Stage 2: Learning sounds and letters
Once children begin to recognize books as a source of pleasure, it's time to introduce them to sounds and letters. Using educational games, songs and nursery rhymes is a fun way to learn the basics of reading and writing. By exposing them regularly to activities focused on sounds and letters, you help develop their phonological awareness, a key skill for decoding words.
Step 3: Exploring words and phrases
As children develop an understanding of sounds and letters, they are ready to explore words and phrases. Simple stories, books with repetition and rhyming word games are valuable resources for enriching their vocabulary and developing their understanding of sentence structure. Encourage them to ask questions about story content, make predictions and tell their own stories.
Stage 4: Development of comprehension and expression
As children progress in their learning to read and write, it's important to encourage the development of their comprehension and expression. Encourage them to discuss the stories they read, sharing their opinions and thoughts. Ask them open-ended questions to stimulate their critical thinking and ability to formulate clear ideas.
Step 5: Stimulating imagination and creativity
Learning to read and write is not just about acquiring technical skills. It's just as important to stimulate children's imagination and creativity. Encourage them to invent their own stories and characters.
Practical tips to encourage early reading
Sometimes we just need to incorporate the tiniest things into our daily lives to get our children excited about this colorful world. Here are a few examples:
- Make books, pictures and photo albums available to your child from an early age. These are all tools that "open the door" to communication.
- Read regularly with your children Dedicate time every day to reading together as a family. This will reinforce their interest in books and give them an opportunity to develop their comprehension.
- Establish a daily storytelling ritual, and enjoy asking your child questions about what you're telling them. This will stimulate their imagination, memory and vocabulary.
- Create an attractive reading corner Create a comfortable space with a well-stocked bookcase, soft cushions and soft lighting. The warm atmosphere will encourage immersion in books.
- Be a role model Be a role model: set an example by reading and sharing your own stories. Children are influenced by what they see, and will be more inclined to engage in reading and writing if they see you doing it with enthusiasm.
- Encourage creativity Writing: offer fun writing activities such as writing diaries, creating poems or putting on short plays. Give them free rein to let their imagination run wild.
- Visit libraries and bookshops libraries: introduce your children to these magical places where words come to life. Libraries often offer interactive activities and readings for children, reinforcing their love of reading.
Your daily life is full of opportunities to stimulate your child's curiosity about reading and writing. Put it to good use! You're sure to find other great ideas to help your child embark on a lifelong adventure!
Imaginaries for early language development and first words
Imagiers are perfect companions for toddlers from the age of one, helping them to recognize everyday objects and discover their names. With Imagiers, children develop their knowledge of the world around them: they play with sounds, then learn to name everyday objects, becoming familiar with their representation.
Featuring large illustrations of common objects, these books capture children's attention and stimulate their curiosity. Each page is an invitation to explore the world around them, naming familiar objects such as animals, fruit, toys and more. Toddlers are fascinated by the bright colors and details of these illustrations, which encourage them to point and try to pronounce the corresponding words.
Imaginaries are real treasures in the eyes of toddlers: they are designed in a simple and attractive way, offering a playful learning experience where children can have fun while discovering a world full of new words and exciting discoveries.
Les Cherche et Trouve, to encourage reading and imagination
Books Seek and find are a great way to integrate early reading into play activities, offering an immersive experience where words and pictures come together to create moments of fun and discovery for your children.
These captivating books encourage children to understand and recognize the words that refer to the objects to be found on each page. By actively searching for these items, children develop their sense of observation and strengthen their vocabulary.
What's more, these books offer colorful, richly detailed scenes featuring a multitude of characters and objects. This encourages children to talk about what they see, describe different situations and tell stories around the illustrations.
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In conclusion, early reading and writing is an exciting journey that allows children to develop their language skills, explore new worlds and express their ideas. You'll be helping your children cultivate their passion for words and prepare for a future filled with literary discoveries.
Remember that each child evolves at his or her own pace, so be patient and encouraging along the way!
