Spot the Story Details

1. 1

   If picture books are not holding your child’s attention, try a few ways to make reading more participatory.

2. 2

   Notice the topics your child already enjoys, such as school or playgrounds, and begin with a story connected to that interest.

3. 3

   Before opening the book, use the cover to spark curiosity: “What is this child doing?” or “This place looks unusual. Where could it be?”

4. 4

   Give characters different voices or act out a movement from the story together—jumping, hiding, or tiptoeing.

5. 5

   Pause at an interesting moment and invite your child into the conversation: “What just happened?” or “Why do you think they did that?”

6. 6

   Before turning a page, ask, “What do you think will happen next?” and listen to your child’s prediction.

What to notice

• Answers your question using events from the story Comprehension and Text Structure
• Takes the initiative to turn the next page or flip through the book to find relevant content Initiative and Curiosity

Tips

• Build on your child’s answer with one related question: “Why do you think the character is angry?” or “What could we do to help?”

Developmental benefits

• Language: Beginning with an appealing book and adding questions, performance, and prediction invites your child to participate, understand the story, and express ideas.