The young minds
Young children have shown greater success in achievement tests when they have had opportunities to explore and become critical thinkers (Glickman, 1979). A wise teacher will often pause during storytelling and ask the child what he thinks of the plot or, leading questions such as, “What do you think will happen next?” There is never a wrong answer — as the child ventures to create and re-create his own version of the story.
An infant of 6 months can be read to. As he starts to focus on objects and becomes familiar with members of his family, the infant can be exposed to colorful picture books. As he gets older and can sit upright, big picture books become just right for mama or papa to prop before the child — as the two read and look at the picture. Glossy pictures may seem more attractive but they can be glaring to the eyes. Matte-finished books are preferable in this case.
Books should be “baby-handled”. Turning pages is always fun for the toddler. Reading with a theatrical flair is quite important too. Freddie Santos, a seasoned stage actor, advises adults to give each character
“voice” role; perhaps, a gruff, deep voice for a giant and a lilting, soft one for a little girl.