What Do I Say?

​Storytime is not just for the children!  It is also a program for the adults who bring them.  This is why sprinkling in early literacy tips is important during storytime. I know, easier said than done!  It can be scary and intimidating to speak directly to the parents/adults but we have excellent information to share about early literacy, brain development, school readiness, and so forth.  We need to share this information with parents and caregivers! 

I have found that writing it down a tip ahead of time helps me to think through what information I would like to share and it also helps me to remember to share the tip with the adults. Even if you don’t think the adults will care, say it anyway! 

Here are a few examples of what you could to say from the “Grow Up Reading” Website:

• Reading to babies right from birth stimulates their mind, develops language skills and lays a foundation for later reading success.
• You can encourage comprehension by asking your child questions when you read together and by encouraging him to expand on his thoughts and feelings about the book.
• Singing songs with your child helps them hear words being broken up into smaller sounds.  Later this skill helps with reading.
• Play games such as Simon Says to promote following direction and learning body part names.

Still not sure “what to say”?  Take a look at these websites that have prewritten early literacy tips.  Copy one down and share it in storytime!

Storytime Share with Saroj Ghoting

Colorado Libraries for Early Learning

Project Enlightenment

Zero to Three