How to Read to Preschoolers and Kindergarten Students

Summary

This video provides helpful tips on how to make storytime more engaging for preschoolers by turning a simple read-aloud into an interactive adventure. It emphasizes the importance of choosing age-appropriate books, using expressive reading, asking comprehension questions, and building vocabulary. The presenter demonstrates how to encourage participation through prediction-making, shared writing, and fun activities like singing and roaring. Additionally, strategies for incorporating children into the reading process, including having them read sight words and take turns, are shared. The video highlights the power of engagement and silliness to keep little ones interested and learning.

Takeaways

• 😀 Choose age-appropriate stories for read-aloud sessions to ensure engagement and comprehension.
• 😀 Encourage children to examine the front cover and make predictions about the story to build excitement and engagement.
• 😀 Incorporate shared writing by writing children's predictions on chart paper to foster a collaborative learning experience.
• 😀 Teach the parts of a book (front cover, spine, back cover) and explain the roles of the author and illustrator to build book knowledge.
• 😀 Use expressive reading techniques, such as varying tone, volume, and pace, to keep children engaged during the read-aloud.
• 😀 Practice and embrace silliness while reading aloud, as preschoolers respond positively to exaggerated expressions and actions.
• 😀 Use sticky notes to track comprehension questions, vocabulary building, and moments where you need to pause and interact with the children.
• 😀 Ask questions to help children understand and build vocabulary, such as explaining words like 'bib' or 'glare'.
• 😀 Incorporate repetition in the story, allowing children to predict what comes next and actively participate in the reading experience.
• 😀 For children who are beginning to read, focus on sight words and involve them in reading by taking turns or pointing out words.
• 😀 Summarize key strategies for a successful read-aloud: use age-appropriate books, engage with expressive reading, incorporate comprehension and vocabulary questions, and provide opportunities for children to join in.

Q & A

Why is it important to choose an age-appropriate story for a read-aloud?

Choosing an age-appropriate story ensures that the content is engaging and accessible to the preschoolers, allowing them to better understand the material and participate in the activity.

What is the benefit of using repetition in a children's story like 'Groovy Joe: Ice Cream and Dinosaurs'?

Repetition helps young children learn language patterns, predict outcomes, and actively participate during the read-aloud, which makes the experience more engaging and educational.

How can making predictions during the read-aloud enhance the children's experience?

Making predictions encourages critical thinking and allows children to connect their prior knowledge to the story, which can increase their excitement and engagement in the reading process.

What is the purpose of discussing the parts of the book with children before reading?

Discussing the parts of the book, such as the front cover, spine, and back cover, helps children become familiar with the structure of books and understand the roles of the author and illustrator.

Why is expressive reading emphasized in the video, and how does it benefit preschoolers?

Expressive reading captures children's attention, making the story more exciting and memorable. It helps convey emotions and energy, which are essential for engaging preschoolers and fostering their love for reading.

How can sticky notes be useful during a read-aloud session?

Sticky notes serve as reminders for the teacher to ask comprehension questions, explain vocabulary, and make connections, ensuring that key concepts are addressed without disrupting the flow of the story.

What role does vocabulary development play during a read-aloud?

Vocabulary development is essential for expanding children's language skills. By introducing new words and explaining their meanings during the read-aloud, children can build their vocabulary in a context they understand.

Why is it important for children to actively participate in the read-aloud session?

Active participation, such as joining in with the song or roaring like the dinosaurs, helps children retain information, stay engaged, and develop a sense of ownership over the story, making the experience more memorable.

How can a teacher incorporate shared writing into a read-aloud session?

Shared writing can be incorporated by writing children's predictions or thoughts on chart paper during the story, allowing them to see their ideas visually represented and connecting the reading to writing practice.

What should a teacher do if they have a child who is ready to read or already reading sight words?

If a child is ready to read or already knows sight words, the teacher can involve them by pointing out sight words during the story or taking turns reading pages, giving the child an opportunity to practice their reading skills while still enjoying the story.