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Great Times to Read in Child Care Settings
T r y T h e m T o d a y !
At arrival time, some youngsters may enjoy reading books or looking at picture books nearby - while you greet newly-arriving children.
During "free time," when children can choose from a variety of activities, children can select favorite books to read by themselves, to each other, to stuffed animals and dolls, or with you.
During snack-time, children can listen to a short story or a chapter read aloud. This can be very enjoyable while helping diminish "wiggling" and fidgeting. It will keep the attention of fast eaters who might otherwise want to leave the table and perhaps go off out of sight, and it will give everyone a shared topic of conversation while they eat.
During circle-time (a group time when everyone sits together for a few minutes), a well-chosen story - with pictures large enough for kids to see and with enough-but-not-too-much text - read aloud is a perfect choice.
During "bathrooming" time (when you're changing diapers and/or helping young children use the toilet, unbuckling overalls, etc.), have all your other children sit within sight - reading or looking at books while they wait their turn.
While you're preparing for lunch, a quiet activity time (including books) can be a big help to keep kids safe and calm - and within your sight.
Before nap-time, read a short story aloud (or let children look at books for a few minutes before nap-time officially begins). If children have reached an age where they no longer sleep but still need to rest and not disturb others who are napping, you can give them a handful of books along with a puzzle or other quiet activity. If children wake before nap-time is over, they can be given books to silently enjoy.
Older children attending your program after school may enjoy a quiet
reading time after being with lots of kids in school and on the school
bus. Older children may feel pride about their ability to read
enjoy reading aloud to one or more younger children.
At the end of the day, after having children clean up their toys, a group story-time and then an individual reading time can be a big help. Kids will be calm, parents will be pleased, and you'll be better able to help "pick-up" time go well.