Reading aloud together as a family is a great way to build family bonds. However, reading aloud is not always fun for mom and kids. The key to a successful family read aloud is making it fun for all involved. How can you do that?
Choose Wisely
Choose a book that everyone will enjoy. There are great classics out there that the whole family will enjoy. Don’t choose a book that is over the youngest heads, but don’t choose a book that is too babyish for the oldest. The key is a perfect balance, which is often times found in the classics like Charlotte’s Web, Little House, Anne of Green Gables, and others.
Time it Accordingly
The family read aloud time needs to be at a time when the whole family is home and relaxed. This is often times before bed. But, it doesn’t have to be. Family dinner table may be a great choice, at breakfast before dad leaves for work is another option. You want to time family reads a loud at a time that works best for everyone. This will be a different time for every family, so choose the time that works best in YOUR home.
Make it lively!
Change your voice with the characters in the book. Let your voice show your excitement or disappointment. Stop at a place where it leaves everyone on the edge of their seat. Monotone voices are NOT the way to do family read a loud. You want them to be fun, upbeat, and engaging.
Encourage Conversation
Talk about the book before and after reading. What do they remember from the day before? Who are the main characters? What do they think are going to happen next? These types of questions get a discussion going and encourage conversation between family members. That is a great way to connect and bond.
Family read aloud time does not have to be “boring” choose a book that the whole family will enjoy, read at a time that works best for YOUR house, make the time lively and encourage conversation. These are the key to successful family read aloud time.
Author Bio: Misty Bailey and her husband have been married for over a decade and have three beautiful children. She shares her struggles with time management, becoming unglued, homeschooling and finding joy in the everyday moments on her blog Joy in the Journey.