Shared book reading is a research-based approach (Murphy, Pentimonti, & Chow, 2022) that helps support young children's language and early literacy development—including children who may have learning difficulties or are at higher risk of them.

During reading, adults actively engage with the child through conversation, encouraging them to participate. The same book can be read multiple times, because each reading can focus on different skills or ideas. There's no need to cover everything in one sitting. Children don't need to learn it all at once!

Research shows that interactive reading supports three key areas of development:

• Print knowledge (understanding how books and written language work)
• Phonological awareness (awareness of sounds in language)
• Oral language skills (speaking and understanding language)

Step 1: Choosing the Right Books

Before you begin, selecting a variety of books is important. Just like a balanced diet, a mix of different types of books helps support children's language and early literacy growth.

Researchers highlight five common types of books, each with its own benefits:

1. Narrative (storybooks): Help children understand story structure and develop comprehension skills
2. Informational books: Introduce children to facts, concepts, and language used in science and real-world topics (like comparing, cause and effect, and reasoning)
3. Alphabet books: Support learning letter names and letter–sound connections
4. Rhyming books: Help children notice sound patterns in words
5. Wordless picture books: Encourage children to talk more, use their imagination, and stay actively engaged Making Reading Even More Meaningful

Experts suggest choosing books with rich vocabulary and emotional content. While reading, you can talk about feelings—for example, explaining why a character changes from happy to upset. This helps children understand emotions and builds their language skills.

It is also helpful to include books that reflect diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. When children see characters who look like them or share similar experiences, they feel valued. At the same time, they learn about others and the world around them.

Reading together is a wonderful way to spend quality time with your child. It builds knowledge, sparks imagination, and creates meaningful learning experiences.

In the next article, we will explore Step 2: setting learning goals!

Reference

Murphy, K. A., Pentimonti, J. M., & Chow, J. C. (2023). Supporting children's language and literacy through collaborative shared book reading. Intervention in School and Clinic, 58(3), 155-163.