1. Baby shows no interest in new book
I observed that almost every time when I introduce a new book to my little one, she shows all the signs of no interest - looks away, grabs other books, fidgets around, etc. I try to capture her interest by pointing to nice pictures or going into my 'play-acting mode' by mimicking sounds or actions as led by the story. I do not use any force, but I will persist by showing the book every other day. Soon, my baby starts to like the book. Some become her favorites and ends up with me reading it everyday.
So don't give up easily if your baby does not take to a book at the first try!
2. Baby wants to bite book
Personally I do not allow my baby to bite books. She can bite her cloth books, teether, toys, etc. Just not books. I wanted to teach my baby from young that books are meant to be enjoyed with eyes. Having said that, it does not mean she didn't try to grab and bite them! I just kept telling her no and held the book a little further away.
3. Baby doesn't want to sit still to read
I guess this is normal when starting to read to an older baby. Baby is mobile and ready to explore the world, while he/she has not yet learnt to enjoy books. Start with short reading sessions, like a few minutes and stop before baby gets disgruntled. That way it keeps baby wanting more. Then slowly extend the reading sessions.
As with any habit, it is an advantage to start reading early when baby is small (2-3 months old) and not so mobile/assertive, and by the time baby grows bigger he/she will look forward to sitting down for reading sessions.
Another way to try is read to baby in the car when the baby is strapped down into the car seat, having not much to do anyway. If you wonder whether your baby will get car sick this way, don't worry, research shows babies don't get car sick until they get older.
4. Baby is rough with books
Invest in some board books for the younger baby if you want your books to last and not having to punctuate your reading sessions with efforts to stop baby from tearing book pages.
0 comments:
Post a Comment