New Year’s resolution: Read more books in English with children

Reading more books than before is definitely one of the important New Year’s resolutions. Together applying these tips and an enthusiastic approach, you can successfully put this resolution into practice. Remember that the key to success is regularity and passion, which will make reading an integral part of your daily life.

Create a reading schedule

Adjust your reading time to the age of your of your child to make it enjoyable and accessible for them. For the youngest, short sessions several times a day are ideal. Children of preschool age or younger school age need regularity, such as daily reading before bedtime or after a midday nap. Give older children the opportunity to schedule their own reading time so they feel involved and responsible for their progress.

Create an appropriate reading space

For the youngest children, create a nice, quiet and comfortable place to read, using colourful pictures, soft cushions and favourite toys. For older children, create a corner for reading in their room or living room, where they can concentrate. Take care of good illumination and a comfortable place to sit. Don’t forget that audio with QR codes are also a great option for any age group, allowing them to listen to books in different locations.

Developing language skills in the youngest (0-3 years)

Reading books in a foreign language to children aged 0-3 is not only a way to have fun, but also to stimulate brain development and build basic language skills. When choosing books to read, pay attention to illustrations that are colourful, expressive and attract the attention of young readers. Simple words and repetitive phrases will help children better acquire new vocabulary in a foreign language.

Interactive reading with children aged 3-5 years old

Children aged 3-5 love interactive stories. Choose books that encourage shared reading, activities and participation, which will help develop language skills through play. Look for books with interesting plots and simple plots that will help with story comprehension, even if vocabulary in a foreign language is still difficult for the child. Repetitive elements and rhymes can be especially helpful.

Introduction to culture and traditions

Between the ages of 5 and 7, children can begin to better understand cultural differences. Choose books that introduce a foreign language through the culture, traditions and customs of other countries, which can be fascinating and educational. Look for simple children’s literature that tells interesting stories, develops imagination and includes educational elements such as counting, colours or describing everyday activities.

Books to read independently at age 7 – 11

Between the ages of 7 and 11, children begin to read independently. Choose books that are suitable for individual reading, but which can also be read together to explain more difficult vocabulary in a foreign language. A series of books with the same characters can be encouraging and build a bond with the reader, as well as help them learn new vocabulary in a foreign language in the context of familiar stories.

Books with interesting topics for children aged 11 – 13 years old

At this age, children may be interested in topics that relate to their daily lives, adventures, friendships or challenges. Choose books that address these topics, but are appropriate for their language level. Introduce a variety of literary genres to reading – from adventure novels to fantasy or historical stories. This will help develop language skills in a variety of contexts.

Books for teenagers

Young people over the age of 13 may be interested in more advanced books that deal with life’s challenges, social relationships or even global issues. Choose books that engage the intellect and develop sensitivity to foreign language. Books can be used to supplement foreign language learning at school. Choose those that have educational elements and are interesting and engaging for young people.

Contact me in a private message if you are looking for children’s literature in English. With the new year comes new titles and sales.