The Preschooler

Playing Favorites

One question I have noticed myself and other parents, grandparents, friends, and family asking young children is, “What was your favorite part?”  My family recently took a trip to Florida and those not on our journey seem to ask my children the same thing.  Everyone wants to know what their favorite part was.  (I have to say, I was a bit disappointed when my four-year-old repeatedly replied that his favorite part was the airplane ride.)

This same question can apply to nearly any event in a child’s life.  A trip to the zoo, the beach, the library, or the movie theater are all situations where a child can reply to this question.  Asking children to recite or explain their favorite part of story is a wonderful way to gauge their comprehension.

Try extending this reading comprehension strategy by having your child draw a picture, create a sculpture, or act out their favorite part of a story.  Prior to reading a story that has been read several times, try asking your child to recall her favorite part of the story.  Instead of always asking about a favorite part of a story, consider asking your child to name a favorite character or illustration.  Finally, ask your child to explain why each part is her favorite.  This will get her thinking more critically and will likely increase her vocabulary as well.

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Written by Laura on March 31, 2010