Children who are good readers at a young age are often well-rounded people. Young readers tend to do better in school, have better language structure, and have a healthy self-image as they become lifelong learners. Statistics show that nearly 40% of low-income families of young US readers are not meeting basic levels of reading proficiency. The overwhelming fear is that many of these young children may never fully participate in American society. These are the children of society and as educators we have a duty to act and not allow these children to fall into waste.
The mind of a young child is like a sponge, it absorbs everything. Young children learn the essential skills that will help them expand their minds to become good readers. Young children become aware of books, pictures, and prints from infancy, during the early years, and well beyond the preschool years. As early childhood educators, we must excite young minds about books so that young children become successful readers. Early educators play an important role in helping prepare and promote early literacy, reduce reading difficulties, and help prepare preschool children for the next grade level, kindergarten. Early childhood educators and parents need to read stories, make stories fun and exciting for everyone. Parents and teachers can act out stories using props and any fun essential aids to make reading exciting for young children.
Children love to answer questions about their favorite character from history. As educators, we should be asking them the important questions about the stories that are read to them. Another way to achieve successful readers would be to motivate them by keeping a record visible to the child. Maybe some kind of chart or graph that you would mark as a record of achievements that you have achieved on your own. “Look what I did!” Children love to be recognized for doing things. It gives them a sense of belonging, self-esteem, as well as builds self-esteem and self-image.
Educators must be diligent and continue to work even harder to raise awareness among parents, engage the minds of young children, especially children from disadvantaged homes, we must put in the hands of children new books that renew their minds and help them feel empowered to see beyond the horizon and start exploring new possibilities. Educators must address everyday literacy issues, encourage families to read together, provide enough resources to inspire families, and motivate young minds to enjoy learning to read.
