“Reading is no doubt one of the most important academic skills a child must master to be successful throughout her life. Reading, more than any other skill, is the key to learning in every academic discipline. Whether the subject is math, science, or social studies, reading is critical throughout a child’s school day. And no matter how much potential a child has for these subjects, without good reading skills her opportunities will be limited. To do well in school, children must read well.”

–from Baby Minds by Linda Acredolo and Susan Goodwyn

No pressure, right?  The most important first step toward helping a child read well, though, is also the easiest: make reading fun!  Use sounds, use different voices, use inflection, and choose engaging books.  If you’re enjoying reading, then your child is most likely enjoying it, too!

Books Forever!

–Erin (blog Mama and co-author)