The notion of toddler reading might seem like a fantastical concept, but the truth is that laying the foundation for literacy can start as early as infancy. Engaging your child in a rich environment filled with language, books, and storytelling can ignite their curiosity and pave the way for a lifelong love of reading.

When our daughter was born, I did something many educators call acting (actors, too). It’s when you act out your day. Give your newborn a verbal view of what is happening around them. This continued well into my daughter’s growth and progress as a bilingual speaker. She is currently 3 years old and can point out a few sight words, know her alphabet in and out of order and their phonetic sounds, and all other essential learning tools for preschoolers.

1. Surround Them with Books: Introduce your child to various age-appropriate books from an early age. Board books with bright pictures and simple words are perfect for toddlers. Create a cosy reading nook in your home where books are easily accessible, inviting your little one to explore and engage with stories. As an English degree and thus book lover, I had over 100 books prepared for a little child before I even knew my husband (call me crazy but look at me now). With over 300 books in our mini library, our daughter has many books to choose from.

2. Read Aloud Daily: Make reading aloud a cherished part of your daily routine. Choose a time when your child is alert and attentive, such as after waking up or before bedtime. Reading aloud exposes your child to new vocabulary and language patterns and fosters bonding and emotional connection. Be very animated with your reading as well, how your child feels about reading often comes from the people they’ve heard read or see.

3. Follow Their Interests: When selecting books, consider your child’s interests and preferences. Whether fascinated by animals, vehicles, or fairy tales, they cater to their curiosity by providing books that align with their interests. Encourage them to choose books, empowering them to actively participate in their reading journey. Also, know that it is purely ignorant to say things like, “that’s not a real book, books with illustrations aren’t good” As your child gets older, remember most things with words can be considered a book; if your child is reading a graphic novel, fiction, comic book, manga, etc. encourage them to continue. Reading should always be fun!

4. Make it Interactive: Engage your child in storytelling by asking open-ended questions, encouraging predictions, and discussing the illustrations. Point out letters, sounds, and familiar words as you read, helping your child connect spoken and written language. This helps when you practise outside in your daily life. Our daughter learned to hear certain words because when we are outdoors (in nature school), I point out those words to her or say them and spell them out.

5. Lead by Example: Children often emulate the behaviour of those around them. Let your child see you enjoying books and reading for pleasure. Whether curling up with a novel, flipping through a magazine, or browsing a recipe book, reading is a joyful and valuable activity.

6. Foster a Positive Reading Environment: Create a nurturing atmosphere where reading is celebrated and encouraged. Praise your child’s efforts and achievements, no matter how small, and make reading a source of joy and discovery rather than a chore or obligation.

In conclusion, while teaching a two-year-old to read independently may not be realistic, laying the groundwork for literacy begins when they are born. You can embark on a fulfilling journey towards nurturing a lifelong reader by surrounding them with books, reading aloud daily, following their interests, making reading interactive, leading by example, and fostering a positive reading environment.