Age-Specific Reading Tips: 2 To 3 Years Old

  • Begin reading to your child immediately. It’s never too early to start reading to your child; reading to young children helps develop early literacy skills.
  • Read to your child every day. Children who become avid readers have been read to daily from a very young age. Make reading a regular event in your home.
  • Read books multiple times. Reading the same book over (and over) builds vocabulary and encourages children to participate in the reading activity.

Ask questions!

Ask your child simple questions about the book.
Examples: What was your favorite part of the book? Where did Corduroy go when he explored the store?

Notice letters!

Point out letters in the text. Example: Let’s find the m’s on this page.

Flip it!

Have your child open the cover and turn the book’s pages while you read.

Name it!

Ask your child to name items in the pictures before reading the text.

Chime in!

Encourage your child to “read” with you on familiar books and repetitive text.