Talk about the book and ask open-ended questions that do not have only right or wrong answers. This will encourage your child's verbal expression, critical thinking, and imagination. Some questions you can ask, at appropriate times during the story are:
        What would you do if you were the character
            in the book?
        What do you think might happen next?
        How would you add to the ending of the story?

Read aloud at least 20 minutes each day. This will allow your child to hear 1 million more words a year.

Extend the book with activities such as cooking and art.

Have books available in many rooms: bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, living room, etc.

Use your library and buy books at GOOD bookstores (not toy stores, supermarkets, or drug stores). Borrow and buy only the best in children's books. Ask your librarian or bookstore manager for ideas.

Occasionally move your finger with the words, across the page, from left to right to show your child the direction of print.

Let your child read books of her or his choice, but try to use your read aloud time for books of the highest quality that challenge your child and will increase her or his vocabulary knowledge.