Role Playing Reading Phase

Role Play readers show an interest in books and the print they see around them. They imitate the things they see adult readers doing such as holding the book carefully, turning the pages and using computer icons. They often pretend to read by using the pictures and their memory to retell stories.

Role Play readers will benefit from a range of experiences. Consider any of the following suggestions.

• Read to your child every day. Reading aloud helps children expand their vocabulary, appreciate the value of books and other texts, understand new ideas and concepts, and learn about the world around them.
• Expose your child to a wide variety of texts, e.g. books, magazines, CD-ROMs, brochures, newspapers, comics. These can be read many times so children become familiar with them. Familiarity helps build self-confidence.
• Encourage and praise your child’s attempts to ‘read’.
• Ensure your child sees other members of the family reading and talking about their reading. This helps Role Play readers understand that there are different reasons for reading.
• Encourage your child to talk about books and their ‘reading’ with other family members.