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How to Help - You Are Your Child's First Teacher

reading

Toddlers need to be nurtured in language-rich environments. Here's what you can do:

  • Read to your toddler every day. You may want to pick a set time to read together as a family.
  • Toddlers love to hear the same book again and again. They find it comforting and it builds vocabulary.
  • Active toddlers may wander while you read. Keep on reading! They will listen on the move.
  • Point out familiar things in books to your child. Encourage your child to name things, too.
playing the trumpet
  • Sing to your toddler. Share beloved songs from your childhood or discover new favorites online or at the Library.
  • Talk to your toddler and find fun ways to get your toddler talking. Engage your child in pretend phone conversations or puppet play.

Reading Milestones »

Illustrations copyright © 2001 by Melissa Sweet from GOOD FOR YOU! TODDLER RHYMES FOR TODDLER TIMES by Stephanie Calmenson. Used by permission of HarperCollins Publishers.

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