By Lana Paris, Executive Director, Discovery Center Museum
At Discovery Center, we believe that the magic of reading can start from day one! Thanks to support from community partners like United Way of Rock River Valley, our First Time Parent Program helps families embrace the joys of early literacy and build the foundation for lifelong learning.
Why Early Literacy?
As parents, we often hear that reading is fundamental, but what exactly does that mean? Early literacy is about more than just letters and sounds; it's about nurturing your child’s curiosity and love for learning! When you read to your little ones, you’re not just sharing stories—you’re sparking their imagination, boosting their vocabulary, and developing critical thinking skills.
Plus, reading together fosters a special bond between you and your child that creates cherished memories. Who doesn’t love snuggling up with a good book?
Fun Tips for Enhancing Early Literacy at Home with Your Little One!
- Storytime Adventures: Turn every story time into a thrilling journey! Pick a cozy spot, grab a few of your child's favorite books, and embark on adventures filled with friendship and discovery. Don’t be afraid to get animated—act out the characters and change your voice for extra fun!
- Hands-On Fun: Make learning a blast by incorporating books with activities that explore colors, shapes, and numbers! Create your own mini-exhibits at home using everyday objects. For example, gather colorful toys and ask your child to sort them.
- Create Your Own Story: Let your child's imagination soar! Provide them with pictures from magazines or drawings and encourage them to narrate their own stories. Grab a notebook and jot down their tales together—this way, you’ll have personalized storybooks to cherish!
- Read, Sing, Play!: Mix reading with music and movement! Sing songs or nursery rhymes that relate to the stories you read. Use fun animal sounds or make silly movements while you sing to keep it lively and engaging—your little one will love the playful connection!
At Discovery Center Museum, we’re passionate about empowering families to embrace the joys of early literacy. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to read with your child—just have fun and let your imaginations soar! Together, let’s create a brighter future one story at a time!
Happy reading, and we can’t wait to see you at the museum!
Your Friends at Discovery Center Children's Museum