Reading to a toy...

​Whether it is their interest, their opinion or their reading, the one thing that children don't like is being judged. Reading to a toy offers a non-threatening environment to children where they could pick a toy (or even a pet if they have one) and read to it. 
 
When the 3rd graders at SMIS geared up to read to their toys, they were encouraged to introduce their toys with a name. It helped them establish the ownership and feel responsible for their toy. They informed the class what the toy's book interest was and what book they had carried. Their choice of book was endorsed. 
It was observed that :

• Children really looked forward to the session.
• Children felt comfort in reading to a toy. They could simply read, without fear of correction or being judged
• We expected it would increase a child’s self-esteem and confidence levels in reading, especially with struggling readers and indeed it did!.
• Children gained a sense of accomplishment in finishing a story book or chapter of a book. They spent longer time (entire 35 minutes) reading to a toy than they would by themselves.
• Other expected benefit:
• Toys (even sensory ones) can be calming to many children. While reading, simply petting the dog can reduce anxiety or stress.

Please cultivate a reading routine at home. Share with us your experiments with 'reading to a toy' or 'reading to a pet'. Mail us what you find. We will share your success stories here so that others can benefit as well.

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Author

Vaidehi Majithia