Page 16 - teachYourChildToRead

16 Teach your child to read

TIP: Your participation in the play will enhance their
enjoyment. Participation at the right intensity is important –
try not to lead the play experience, but be a partner in
their play.

To be an effective ‘partner in play’ may require you to take a new approach
of being fully engaged and really watching and learning from your child.

Play with your child by sitting on the floor and getting down to their level.
Physical closeness and one on one communication will build a stronger
relationship and connection. Being a valuable play partner in the early
years of their life will build the relationship needed for you to introduce
guided reading activities later.

Television

Within some families there is a temptation to rely on media screens to
entertain young children. Televisions and computers are switched on
around the world in lounge rooms, bedrooms, cars and shopping centres.
There is no shortage of access to media and to the advertising agencies
that target young children to sell their products.

“The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages media use by children
younger than 2 years. Unstructured play allows a child’s mind to grow,
problem-solve, think innovatively and develop reasoning skills. The
importance of parents sitting down to play with their children cannot be
overstated ”.
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Some parents wrongly believe that educational television is important
for a young child’s development. However, unstructured or free play is
far more valuable for children’s developing brains than electronic media.

“There is no evidence that early exposure to TV can enhance children’s
language development, and in fact, the prevailing scientific evidence suggests
the opposite. Adults speak 75% fewer words per hour when a TV is playing
and children vocalise an average of 25 to 50% less compared to when the TV
is turned off ”.
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