1) Find a quiet spot where there are no distractions.

2) As you read, sing and repeat rhymes to add interest.

3) As well as reading the story, talk about the pictures.

4) Give your child time to respond – don’t rush through the story.

5) It’s good to read favourite books again and again (repetition helps children understand and remember language).

6) Don’t just save books for bedtime – read in the bath, on a bus or even at the supermarket!

7) Show your child that you enjoy reading too – books, newspapers, magazines etc. Your example is very important.

8) Books on tape and CD are available from the library – another great way to share stories.

9) Get the whole family involved - encourage others to read to your child- grandparents, babysitters, older brothers and sisters etc.

10) Start off with short stories and rhymes - as children grow older they’ll enjoy listening to and joining in with longer stories.

Remember it’s never too early to start sharing books with your child, research has shown that children who are read to, do better with reading and numbers when they go to school.