Before they learn to read, children must recognize printed words and understand how they are read. Exposure to printed materials will help your child make those connections. Provide your child with plenty of books to look through. Point out words written on items around your home, such as canned foods or on clothing. Label items around your home using index cards, and point to the written word as you say the name of the item.
Children must be aware of how to hold a book before learning to read. In addition, they must understand that words are printed from left to right, and must know how to turn the pages in a book, according to the National Association of School Psychologists. To help your child grasp these concepts, read to him often. As you read, point to the word in the book, or help your child to point. Ask your child to turn the pages for you. Let your child pretend to read the book to you, and encourage him to turn pages.
Letter recognition is necessary for a child to learn to read. Teach your child the ABC song, recommends Scholastic. Help your child recognize the letters in her name when she sees them printed in other words. Point to letters in books you read or printed words you see in your home. Write out letters on a piece of paper, and talk about the shape of the letters as you write.
Children should know the sounds letters make before they begin reading. As your child learns different letters in the alphabet, talk about the sound the letter makes. Write words with your child, sounding out each letter as you write it. Use fun rhymes and songs to teach about sounds that are the same. Clap out the syllables of words and do it together, recommends the National Academy of School Psychologists.