Pumpkin patches, scarecrows and story time? Yes, please! Fall in Florida may not bring chilly air or changing leaves, but the season is still a good time to snuggle up with your child and a good book – whether you’re reading indoors to stay cool or enjoying a story under a shady tree.
Starting at birth, your child benefits from hearing you tell stories and talk about books. It builds their vocabulary, supports brain development and strengthens your bond. Your baby will enjoy looking at pictures and listening to your voice while you read. Just 15 minutes a day can build language skills, spark imagination and help your child develop a love of books.
You don’t need cool weather to enjoy these autumn-inspired reads. Check out these engaging titles your child will love:
- “Here Comes Fall!” by Susan Kantor
- “Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn” by Kenard Pak
- “The Leaf Thief” by Alice Hemming
- “Ten Red Apples” By Pat Hutchins
Reading together doesn’t have to be complicated and doesn’t have to wait until bedtime. Keep books in the car, diaper bag or kitchen so you can squeeze in a few minutes of reading during your day. Try these simple prompts with your child:
- Ask questions: With preschoolers and older toddlers, ask “What do you see in the picture?” or “What do you like to do in the fall?” Asking questions builds thinking and language skills.
- Let them finish the rhyme: Pause during rhyming stories and let your child guess the last word. It’s a great way to build phonological awareness.
- Connect to real life: Point out things from the book that relate to your child’s experiences. “Remember when we picked out a pumpkin like that?”
- Use movement: Act out parts of the story, count on your fingers or pretend to rake leaves.
Fall pairs perfectly with seasonal traditions like visiting a pumpkin patch or attending local fall festivals. This fall, celebrate the season. Whether you’re discussing or picking pumpkins in flip flops or reading about apples under a palm tree, talking and reading together makes memories and builds skills that last a lifetime.
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