Read, Read, and Read Some More

Babysitters or Nannies who spend long hours with the children are often looking for fun, interesting, or exciting ways to pass some time.  Board games are great and often take a while to play.  Going to the playground or on a hike is fun an gets the kids moving.  But don't forget about reading!  Children of all ages love stories.  Take a trip to the local library with the kids or just bring some books from home.  You might even want to purchase some very inexpensive gently used books from a yardsale specifically to take with you babysitting.

Learning to read is vitally important for children and reading to them is a step in the right direction.  Parents and caregivers alike:  Let children see you reading.  Read signs when you go for walks.  Leave children's books on low shelves where children can help themselves.  When you read to very young children and toddlers, keep it interactive and ask them to point out certain items on the page.  If a child is learning to recognize letters, you could ask him to find a particular letter on that page.  Have preschoolers play dress up and act out short stories or nursery rhymes.  Make an alphabet book using pictures and letters cut from old magazines or used greeting cards.  There are so many ways to promote reading.

Lisa McLellan

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