Picture books are a great way to spark chat with your little one.
They can both help them to understand things they see in their everyday life and introduce them to all sorts of new ideas.
Watch the film below for some ideas on how to get the best out of picture books with your little one.
What are the benefits of reading picture books with toddlers?
- Picture books can spark children's imaginations as you turn through the pages and talk about different adventures and characters
- Books allow children to connect the things they see in pictures with the words for those things as you read them aloud
- Reading books together helps to develop their attention and listening skills
- Cuddling up together with a book is a great bonding activity
Take notice of the things they are interested in on the page and talk about them.
What's the best way to read to my toddler?
- At this age, it's important to know that you're not trying to teach children to read. The focus is on helping them learn to listen to and say new words.
- You don't need to read books word for word - instead pay attention to the things they take an interest in on the page and talk about those things, repeat the bits they like best and even make up your own stories.
- If they say a word, build on the word by adding a phrase around it. So if they say 'apple', you could say 'yes, apples on the tree'.
- Have fun! Put on voices, make sound effects and pull faces - these will all help your child to engage.
- Try and sit close together, so that your child can see your face as you speak and encourage them to hold the book and turn the pages.
Take notice of the things they are interested in on the page and talk about them.
Tips on reading to toddlers
- Check out The Toddler Club's advice on sharing books with toddlers
- An explanation of why toddlers love hearing the same stories over and over
