Read With Your Children

1. Read to them - now! Reading has no age limits. You can start reading to babies at birth (some say before), and continue to read out loud even after they've learned to read by themselves.

2. Be a role model. Children mimic what they see, so let them see you read. Let them know how much you enjoy books. Let them see how reading is a part of everyday life, from reading labels to keeping up with the news and enjoying literature. And let them see you share a special "book moment" with older children.

3. Extend the story. Encourage children to act out a story they've read with toys, dolls, plush animals or even siblings or friends. Or have them illustrate it with art supplies. They can add themselves to a scene or create new endings. Write a new storybook based on the same characters as they dictate it. Young readers love to read their homemade books, and dramatic play strengthens their imaginations and language skills.

4. Seek spontaneity AND ritual. Keep books handy, so children can enjoy them anytime, anywhere. Give books as gifts and use them as rewards and periodic surprises. But don't leave reading to chance alone. Rituals help bring families closer together. Plan reading routines, so children know they "get a story" every night. Have them read while you make dinner, or read a story out loud for "dessert" after dinner.

5. Build a library. Books are a treasure chest of imaginary places, magical friends and pure joy. Cultivate a library of your favorites and theirs. As they begin reading on their own, they'll find pleasure and comfort in familiar books. At they mature, they'll enjoy exploring the more challenging volumes from the family shelves.

6. Take books with you. Keep books in the back seat of your car, so children can read while they ride. Take books to the beach, to the pool and to restaurants. And carry a tote bag of books to take the boredom out of waiting rooms and long trips.