Familiar Books

Even though I have not been blogging, we are still reading away at my house! Shannon has become more interested in books, but only a select few, which we read before bed and nap time. In fact, she points to the book she wants, we read it, and she takes it to bed with her. One of these nights I will sneak in and take a picture of her cuddled with her blanket and book.
Anyway, back to the point of this post. Babies (1 year olds) love the repetitive nature of books. They also love rereading familiar stories because they know what to expect. For example, we have been reading a shape book. Each page opens up,down, or out. When we first started reading this book (every night!) Shannon had no idea how to open the pages, after 3 or 4 readings she started to open the pages on her own. Modeling how to do something for children is so important. It is interesting to watch the child pick up the concept, practice it, then finally master it.
Books like the shape book are great for kids because the teach about shapes, and they expand vocabulary. We are learning about squares AND the names of objects that are squares. Even though 1 year olds can't express the language yet it is vital to build vocabulary with them. You will be surprised when they start using these words in conversations with you when they are 2!

Soooo - familiar book help build vocabulary which will help your children expand their receptive language which effects their expressive language later.