Sharing books and stories from an early years is a great way to develop language, practise social and emotional communication, and learn about the world. In fact, research shows that children who read for pleasure are likely to have improved life chances in the future.

This year, the World Book Day® charity are encouraging everyone to throw out the rules and Read Your Way. For families of deaf children, that could mean reading in front of a mirror so your child can see your face, telling stories in sign language, or using toys and real-world objects to connect books with meaning.

Top tips to Read Your Way

1. Look for books with different shapes and textures. For young children, feeling or chewing on books and turning the pages can be just as much fun as what's inside! 

2. Use a recipe book stand to hold picture books open while you read. This leaves your hands free to sign, gesture, or play with toys. 

3. Follow your child's interests. If they open a book on a certain page, read the page with them and move on when they're ready. You don't have to start at the beginning, or end at the end! 

4. As your child gets older, encourage them to tell the story themselves, using the pictures to make up their own plot. 

5. Your child won't always be in the mood for reading, and that's OK. Children who see reading as a choice rather than a chore are more likely to enjoy reading in the future.

For more information about World Book Day, visit the official World Book Day website.