Choose a book. Preschoolers may be content to read the same books over and over again, but they will learn new things if they're constantly exposed to new books. Visit the library every week or two to check out new books for the room. Look through each book before checking it out to make sure that preschoolers will understand the story.
Select an area to read. If you're reading to a large group, choose an open area of the room so children will be able to sit without touching one another. For a smaller group, choose a quiet corner away from any other activities. Sit with your back to the wall so children will face the wall and not be distracted by other things happening in the room.
Make rules for reading time. Tell children that they may get comfortable by lying down or snuggling on a pillow, but will have to sit up if they are not listening well. Explain about when children are allowed to talk or ask questions. Preschoolers struggle to wait and take turns, so they may shout out any thoughts while you're reading. If the book is short, ask children to wait until you're done reading to speak. If the book is long, tell children that you will take questions every few pages. They must wait until you ask for any questions before speaking.
Show the cover of the book. Ask children to raise their hands and say what they think the book is about from looking at the cover. Ask them to point out any letters they recognize in the title. Open the book to the title page and show them the names of the author and illustrator. Explain what these words mean.
Read each page in a slow, clear voice. Children will be bored easily if you read in a monotone, so change your tone depending on the story. For instance, when something exciting is happening use a slightly faster and higher voice. If possible, hold the book out to your side so you can read and display the pictures at the same time. If this isn't possible, show children the pictures after you finish reading each page. Hold each page out for about 10 seconds so children can study it.
Talk about the book afterward. Ask children what they thought the story was about, and what they liked and disliked about it. This builds each child's speaking skills and teaches him to think critically about books.