DOs

Do make the time spent reading together enjoyable for both of you.

Do read to your child at least once a day. (More if you can manage it!)

Do pick a time when your child can have your sustained, undivided attention.

Do allow your child to select books, but also feel free to make you own selections occasionally. This lets your child know that you have favorites, too.

Do let your child hold the book and explore its pages and pictures, before you begin reading.

Do stop for questions and discussion when your child wants to.

DON'Ts

Don't continue reading when your child loses interest.

Don't go overboard with questioning. A discussion at home should not be a test.

Don't refuse to re-read an old favorite again and again. Young children begin to understand print by memorizing a book they hear repeatedly, and older children gain confidence in their ability to read a book independently as they hear it over and over. (But remember that you can make selections sometimes!)