by Alan Jacques
alan@limerickpost.ie
CHILDREN in Limerick are being encouraged to take part in some fun reading this week as part of World Book Day, which takes place this Thursday, March 3.
The Childhood Development Initiative (CDI), which coordinates a literacy programme in six schools across Limerick, have urged teachers, parents and children to get involved.
CDI Speech and Language therapist Michelle Quinn outlined useful tips for Limerick parents to encourage their children’s reading.
“It’s never too early to start. Share books them with your child for at least 10 minutes each day. Ask for books as presents for your child’s birthday or Christmas. Join the local library and you’ll never be short of books,” Michelle explained.
She also pointed out that what works to get children’s interest also varies according to their age.
“Children in Junior Infants like books about everyday things, story books about adventures, alphabet books, counting books, non-fiction books about insects or dinosaurs or imaginative books – about fairies. While children at crèche stage like small books that fit into their hands, books with simple rhymes, flap books and books about everyday things, clothes, animals and toys.
“Preschool children often like books that tell stories about children and also nursery rhyme books. When reading talk about the book. With smaller children this may be pointing out pictures while it would be pointing out words with older children,” she said.
CDI are also encouraging parents and children to use www.doodleden.ie, a fun website for 5-6 years olds with interactive language and number games.
World Book Day resource packs are available at www.worldbookday.com
