How do I raise a reader?

• Read, write, talk, sing, and play - these all develop reading skills.
• Read out loud to your child - even if they are already reading independently.
• Listen to your child read out loud and be patient.
• Be a reader yourself - make sure your child sees you reading.
• Praise your child for reading.
• Make reading a part of your daily routine.
• Encourage your child choose books that are interesting to them - regardless of reading level.
• Check out fun books phonics - kids familiar with phonics have an easier time reading.
• Talk with your child's teacher on how to develop your child's reading skills.
• Read in your or your child's mother language.
  Siouxland Libraries boasts an excellent language collection. Get started with this list, ask a librarian for help finding books in your language, or request specific languages for purchase here.

More information on raising a reader:

• 5 Tips for Raising a Reader by Clarissa Cooke (New York Public Library)
• 10 Things You Can Do to Raise a Reader by Reading Rockets
• How to Help Your Child Learn to Read by Dayva Segal (WebMD)

Information by Age Range:

Birth-5

Kindergarten-5th Grade

Have questions about these or other library services?

Email us at libask@siouxfalls.org or call us at 605-367-8700.