Reading with Your Children

three toddlers reading a book together

Reading to your children from an early age is important for their development and future success. It not only helps build their vocabulary and comprehension skills, but also fosters a love for learning and curiosity about the world.

School Readiness

Reading is a great way to get kids ready for school. It helps them improve their language and listening skills and increases their attention span. Stories introduce children to new ideas, cultures, and concepts, expanding their understanding of the world.

When you read together, it creates a shared experience that encourages a positive attitude toward books and learning. This makes children feel more confident and excited about starting school. By making reading a regular part of your day, you're giving your child a head start in their education!
Serve and Return
The idea of "serve and return" is really important in helping kids learn. When you read to your child, you are creating a back-and-forth interaction. You "serve" by reading a story or asking a question, and your child "returns" by answering, pointing at pictures, or asking questions of their own. This back-and-forth helps strengthen their thinking and social skills, setting a strong base for early literacy.
Where to Start?

Ottawa Public Libraries and EarlyON child and family centres are great places to start!

They often have book-giving programs and free activities to help you and your family begin your reading. By making reading a fun, regular part of your routine, you're setting your child up for a lifetime of learning and growth.

 

 

Do you have more questions about parenting?

  • Connect with a registered nurse from Health811 for free, secure, and confidential health advice. Service is available 24/7 in English and French, with translation support also offered in other languages. Call 8-1-1 or visit Health811.ontario.ca.
  • Connect with a Community Navigator from 2-1-1 for information about community programs and resources across Eastern Ontario. Helpline service is available 24/7 and in many different languages. Call 2-1-1 or visit 211ontario.ca.
  • Connect with other parents on the Parenting in Ottawa Facebook page.
  • There are a variety of services to make it easier for your child to grow up healthy in Ottawa.
  • You can update your child's immunization record using either the Immunization Connect Ontario (ICON) Tool or the CANImmunize App. 
  • If you have received a message from Ottawa Public Health such as a letter or a call regarding immunization, an infectious disease, or infection control lapse, please call 613-580-6744 and listen to the menu options carefully.

 

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