Making Reading Come to Life

As the last installment in a series on literature, I would like to share information about activities that many of us may not associate with reading. Activities such as reciting nursery rhymes, finger plays, and arts or crafts are just some of the activities that are often overlooked as an important part of building reading skills.


Ben, DCM staff, reads
Who Stole the Cookie from the Cookie Jar?
by Margaret Wang to a group of children in
our Family Resource Center

 Nursery rhymes are known for their familiarity and poetic prose. Rhymes like Humpty, Dumpty and Little Miss Muffet capture attention in a way that books with a more detailed story line cannot. These rhymes have a distinct set of poetic rhythms that make them easy to recite and fun when motion is added. Finger play with rhymes such as the Itsy-Bitsy Spider take on new significance because of the actions used to accompany the rhyme. Click on the link provided here for some of your favorite rhymes.

Adding art or craft activities can aid in a better understanding of a story. Arts or crafts can lead to engaging conversation that may enhance comprehension. Try accompanying the activity with discussion about the story that was read. Ask, “What was your favorite part of the book?” Or, “Do you remember what happened when…”

Also, spring is a great time to read the Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. The colors are vibrant, the story is explorative and the art work jumps from the page. Take a look at the popular website pinterest for activities that can make this story come to life.

Whatever you might do, enjoy where reading takes you!


Mollie Willis, M.S., Curriculum & Instruction
is Early Learning Specialist for DCM.