How do I select books for my children to read (they are 6 and 8 years old)?
Think of selecting books at these ages according to how they might be used: Read-Alouds Read-Withs Read-Alones Read-Alouds A read-aloud book is one that you read to your child at special times — like bedtime or in a comfy chair on a rainy afternoon. These books should always be well above your child’s independent reading level because you are the one in control of the reading. The purpose for reading aloud is the same as the first time you read a book to your child as an infant: for bonding together, for enjoyment, for developing listening skills, for increasing vocabulary, and finally, for helping your child develop a rich understanding of the power of written words in stories, poetry, nonfiction, and other kinds of reading material. Often, we read aloud less to our children as they grow older, not realizing that the benefits continue to be enormous. And because the book is literally in your hands in this kind of experience, you should choose the book you would like your child to hear
