In honor of National Book Lovers Day, we would like to share tips to make reading with your child a daily habit.

Schedule daily reading time. Just as you schedule other family activities, like dinner, gymnastics, bath night, etc., schedule reading time as part of your daily routine.

Carry books with you wherever you go! Create an on-the-go book bag. Fill it with books and writing materials, then take it with you whenever you leave home. This gives your child fun activities to entertain and occupy him while traveling, while waiting for food at the restaurant, and going to the doctor’s office or other appointments. The opportunities are endless.

Listen to audio books or podcasts in the car. Turn off the radio and listen to an audio book or podcast. Your local library has great audio books for children, and there are tons of wonderful podcasts for children. Here are a few of our favorite podcasts:

• Sesame Street– It features your favorite characters and offers fun stories, songs, alphabet activities, and more.
• Brains On!– A fun podcast co-hosted by children about scientific concepts.
• Wow in the World– A podcast from NPR about why and how things work.

Make reading an adventure!

• Use silly voices.
• Involve your child. Let your child “chime-in” on repeated phrases, add a sound effect, or ask them, “Do you remember what happens next?”
• If it is a very familiar story, give the book to your child and let him read to you.

Be a reading role model. Let your child see you read. This sends a message that reading is important.