Make Your Own Audiobooks!

I recently gave a parent workshop about reading comprehension and as part of my preparation, I did some research from a wonderful book I found at the library.   It’s called ‘A Parent’s Guide: How to Get Your Child to Love Reading’.
The author, Esme Raji Codell, has a background that includes having been a classroom teacher, a children librarian, and a children’s bookseller.  The book is a treasure trove of information and ideas – and chock full of great suggestions for books!

I took particular interest in Part VI of the book that was all about teaching a love of books and reading through broadcast and performance activities. Here’s a sampling of some of her ideas from this part of the book:
– You and your child can create your own ‘books on tape’ by reading aloud into a tape recorder or other recording device.  Read a favorite book aloud to record – or create your own family stories to record and listen and enjoy.
– Or with the help of your PTA, start a school project with parents and children taking turns to read and record their  favorite books.  Purchase and donate the corresponding book to the library along with your recording of the book.
– Or get out the home video camera, and have your child write a short script starting with a “lead” (question, quip,
to catch viewer’s interest), then introduce him or herself and the author’s name and title of the book the child has read along with a short overview of the story – that doesn’t give away the ending!

All children can enjoy audio books and video book reviews – especially those who struggle with reading such as those diagnosed as having dyslexia.

Have fun trying out the activities noted here and check out all the other ideas found in Esme’s book!