During reading time, let your child hold the book and turn the pages when it is time. Having your child become familiar with how a book is held and the directions the pages turn (front to back) actually helps build literacy.

Afraid of rough handling? The Library offers a large collection of board books whose pages are designed to be sturdy and can take a (metaphorical) beating. Board books aren’t just for toddlers- older listeners may utilizes the lengthier stories for page turning practice. (Ask at the Kids desk for help finding great stories!) Had an accidental rip while reading a picture book with regular paper pages? Don’t try to fix it at home! Let the Library Services know about the tear when you return the book so it can be sent to our book doctor.

Reading is part of the 5 early literacy practices supported by Every Child Ready to Read® that will help build the important six skills: print awareness, letter knowledge, phonological awareness, vocabulary, narrative skills, and print motivation. Allowing your child to handle the book increases their involvement in the story – and often their enjoyment as well!

Every Child Ready to Read® is a project of the Association for Library Service to Children and the Public Library Association, divisions of the American Library Association.