A friend recently ask me what she should do next with her little girl, Emelia, to get her to read. Emelia was four and was wanting to copy any word she would see. She was sounding out letters and making simple words, such as C..a..t..and D..o..g. After a visit to Laura Ingalls Wilder's home, she copied, "L..a..u..r..a" and then, "h..o..u..s..e.." and so on. Her motivation was strong. She was already deriving meaning, which is actually reading. But, what was the NEXT step?
The NEXT step in the reading process could be having Emelia make her own little books. Most books you can find in the library or bookstore at this stage will be too difficult. Simply take 3-4 sheets of blank typing paper and fold in half. Staple into a book. After a natural conversation with Emelia about anything going on in her life, have her make a book about what you discussed.
For example, the trip to Laura Ingalls Wilder. Talk with Emelia about what she saw, what she smelled, what she learned, etc. Then, take a small piece of her story and write it into her book for her. If there is a letter she can write, let her write that letter. Write the letters fairly large with large spaces between the words on the left hand bottom of the page. This will encourage her eyes to pull to the left as she will need to do when reading. Have her illustrate the story on the right-hand side of the book. (Do not write in ALL capital letters) :)
The story may read something like...
Emelia sees a house.
Emelia sees a bird.
Emelia sees a doll.
Emelia sees a swing.
I love Laura Ingalls Wilder!
Using her name in the story will encourage her to recognize the print. Have her point to each word and read HER story. It is HER language and that will support her with meaningful reading. Try not to coherce the story to sound like you want it to sound. It is HER story.
I think this will be the beginning of some exciting times between mother and daughter and the NEXT step to READING!
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