Families For Life | Reading and Storytelling with Babies and Children-Toddlers
Video: From Baby to Book Lover
Contributed by: National Library Board
Toddlers are naturally curious and love exploring the world around them. Reading together helps build language skills, encourages imagination and supports early learning.
You do not need to limit reading to storybooks. Picture books, simple magazines, family letters and other everyday reading materials can capture your toddler's interest and introduce new words.
Making the Library an Adventure
A trip to the library can be an exciting experience for your toddler. Borrowing books regularly allows you to introduce new stories without having to buy them.
Give your toddler simple choices during library visits. You might ask:
Would you like a book about animals or vehicles?
Which cover catches your eye?
Shall we choose one new book and one favourite book?
These small decisions help your child feel involved and excited about reading.
Enjoy Library Programmes
Many libraries organise storytelling sessions, sing-alongs and other activities for young children. These programmes make books fun while helping toddlers become familiar with the library environment.
Try Different Ways to Enjoy Stories
Audiobooks can be useful during car rides or quiet time at home. Many libraries also provide digital books that families can access online, making reading convenient wherever you are.
Key Takeaway
Frequent library visits and shared reading experiences can help your toddler develop positive associations with books. The more enjoyable reading feels, the more likely your child will want to read again and again.