Reading does not have to happen only at bedtime or during a long, quiet moment. Even a few minutes of reading each day can help children build language, attention, memory, and connection with adults. 

Good times to read include: 

• Before naps or bedtime as part of a calming routine 

• After meals or during quiet breaks in the day 

• While waiting at appointments, bus stops, laundromats, or community spaces 

• During playtime, especially with books about animals, colors, trucks, food, or favorite interests 

• When a child is feeling upset and needs help calming down 

• Anytime a child brings a book to an adult or shows interest

Adults do not need to read perfectly for reading time to be meaningful. Children benefit from hearing words, looking at pictures, asking questions, and spending time with someone who is paying attention to them. 

Adults can make reading easier by: 

• Letting the child choose the book 

• Talking about the pictures, even without reading every word 

• Asking simple questions like “What do you see?” or “What do you think happens next?” 

• Using funny voices, facial expressions, or gestures 

• Repeating favorite books, even if the child asks for the same story again and again 

• Connecting the story to the child’s real life 

• Reading in the family’s home language 

• Letting the child turn pages, point, make sounds, or move around while listening