Before the read

So, how do you get started. First pick an easy book, lots of pictures and few words that say exactly what is happening in the picture. Hand your child the book. The book should be a simple text that has a few words or 1 or 2 sentences on a page. Have you child "discover" the book.
1. Look at and identify the front and back cover.
2. Point to the title and discuss how they know it is the title.
3. Name the author and illustrator and talk about their job.
4. Look at the cover and have your child make predications about characters and what will happen in the story.
5. Take a picture walk and talk with your child. Look at the pictures and talk about what is happening. Ask questions like: Who do you think the characters are? Where does this story take place (setting)?
6. Now you are ready to close the book, predict what happens in the book, and begin reading!