D.E.A.R. stands for Drop Everything and Read. It’s when kids can read and enjoy the books they want, just for the pleasure of reading and with no questions asked!
On April 12, the birthday of beloved Newbery Medal-winning author Beverly Cleary, the nation celebrates “Drop Everything and Read” Day. It will also be a day of remembrance for Beverly Cleary as she passed away recently at the age of 104 years old. This author was a favorite of many children.
The concept of “Drop Everything and Read” is referenced in the second chapter of Ramona Quimby, Age 8, and Ramona is the campaign spokesperson. The aim of this nationwide initiative is to encourage families to designate a special time to “drop everything and read” at home. So, on April 12, families will be encouraged to take at least 30 minutes to put aside all distractions and enjoy books together.
Read early and read often. The early years are critical to developing a lifelong love of reading. It’s never too early to begin reading to your child! The tips below offer some fun ways you can help your child become a happy and confident reader. Try a new tip each week. See what works best for your child.
Read together every day: Read to your child every day. Make this a warm and loving time when the two of you can cuddle close.
Give everything a name: Build your child’s vocabulary by talking about interesting words and objects. For example, “Look at that airplane! Those are the wings of the plane. Why do you think they are called wings?”
Say how much you enjoy reading: Tell your child how much you enjoy reading with him or her. Talk about “story time” as the favorite part of your day.
Read with fun in your voice: Read to your child with humor and expression. Use different voices. Ham it up!
Know when to stop: Put the book away for awhile if your child loses interest or is having trouble paying attention.
Be interactive: Discuss what’s happening in the book, point out things on the page, and ask questions.
Read it again and again: Go ahead and read your child’s favorite book for the 100th time!
Talk about writing, too: Mention to your child how we read from left to right and how words are separated by spaces.
Point out print everywhere: Talk about the written words you see in the world around you. Ask your child to find a new word on each outing.
Get your child evaluated: Please be sure to see your child’s pediatrician or teacher as soon as possible if you have concerns about your child’s language development, hearing, or sight.
Visit the Library: Your library has books for all ages and on almost every topic you can think of.
