What Words Mean

The best way to expand a child's vocabulary is to read aloud to them.  Research shows that this simple activity drastically increases the number of words that a child hears and learns in just a few years.  Children who have been, or are being read to, have an incredible advantage at school because they have the book language teachers use.  

Not all books are created equally.  It is best to choose a book to read aloud that is about 1-2 years ahead of where they are able to read independently.  The catch is that you shouldn't just power-read through it to get to the end of the chapter, rather, you should stop and talk about what is happening and take the time to specifically discuss any words that may be unfamiliar.

Back when we were in school, we spent hours writing out the definitions to a list of words that had little relevance in our lives.  I'm sure you remember that also; the words didn't come to life until they were in a context that made sense and gave a reason they were important.  What reading aloud does for children is to give them the relevance and context to absorb the new words; they are able to come to life when they are filled with meaningful discussion in the context of a good story.

Too often we sell our children short by dumbing down our own language.  Kids are smart and can understand words well above their grade level when they are used in a meaningful way.  If your child hears you say, "I abhor a messy kitchen!" and that child knows how much you dislike it, they will understand the meaning; particularly if you include them in the "game" by asking what it is that they abhor.

This advice comes from Jim Trelease, a leading authority on reading aloud to kids ... When you have more than one child; if they can't wear the same underwear, don't read them the same book because it won't fit one of them.  Reading aloud to your children should be enjoyable for both of you, so choose a book you can both connect to, and don't be afraid to choose one with sad themes like Where the Red Fern Grows or Old Yeller.  When children see us emotionally connecting to books, they come to understand what books are really about - communicating ideas in a manner that leaves the reader a bit changed from the experience.