Emergent reading and writing

Essential information to remember Let him handle books. Reading will be an important part of his life when he goes to school.

Photo: Maxime Delage

Essential information to remember Once your child has learned to handle books, he’ll become increasingly familiar with the written word.

Photo: Geneviève Germain

Now that your child has learned to handle books, he’s beginning to discover the written word. Long before he goes to school, you can use everyday events to help him take the first steps toward reading.

Your child watches you and wants to imitate you. Do some of your reading and writing while he’s watching. Here are a few suggestions for activities:

  • When he begins naming the people around him, you can write each person’s name beside their photo. If he says “daddy” for example, you can write the name in big letters under a picture of daddy.
  • When he brings you a drawing, write his name at the bottom of it.

Your child will make the connection between speech and writing a bit at a time. He will discover the purpose of writing and decide it is a good idea.

Don’t hesitate to visit your local library.