Tips for Reading Aloud

Before You Read a Story

• Make sure everyone is comfortable.
• Show the cover and read the title and author of the book.
• Ask the children about the cover.
• Suggest things the children can look or listen for during the story.
• Ask some or all of the following questions:
  • What do you think this book is about? Why?
  • Where do you think the story takes place?
  • Have you ever read anything like this before?
  • Flip through the pages and point out the illustrations to the children. Make predictions based on what you both see in the book.
  • Discuss things that the children might have in common with the characters or the setting of the story.

During a Story

• Change your voice to fit the mood or action.
• Move your finger under the words as you read them.
• Show the pictures and talk about the book as you read.
• Add information or change words to help kids understand more words and explain the meaning of a new word.
• Ask children to make predictions about the plot, the characters, and the setting.
• Share your own thoughts about the story.
• Allow children to ask questions or make comments.
• Follow the cues of the children to respond to their age, background and any other individual characteristic or challenges.

After You Read a Story

• Ask questions about the story. For example, you might ask some or all of the following:
  • What is the title of the story?
  • Who is the author? Illustrator?
  • Where does the story take place?
  • Who is the most important character? Why?
  • What is the problem or conflict in the story? How is it solved?
  • Does this book remind you of another book? Why?
  • How did the story make you feel?
  • Did the illustrations help tell the story?
  • Has anything that takes place in the story ever happened to you?
  • What is your favorite part of the story and why?
• Ask children to describe one of the characters in the story, or how they might feel or act if they were one of the characters.
• Extend the story with an activity or another book.

Tips by Topic:

• Choosing Good Books
• Creating Reading Spaces at Home
• Encouraging Struggling Readers
• Motivating Kids to Read
• Partnering with Teachers
• Reading Aloud
• Tips for Seasonal Reading

Source: Gateways to Early Literacy