Strategy 1: Engage children in multiple re-readings of stories

Allow the child to interact independently with favorite books and reading materials (e.g. make sure they are easily accessible at home and in the classroom, schedule regular “reading time”)
Have a familiar person read and re-read familiar/favorite stories often
Pause to allow the child to participate and interact when reading together
In a book that has a recurring phrase, let the child “read” it (using voice, sign, movement and/or a communication device)
Increase participation by having the child turn pages (adapted if needed) or by advancing slides in a powerpoint book
Use variation in re-readings (e.g. sing the stories, add rhythm, take turns reading pages, read a phrase and let the child repeat it)
Pair words and phrases from the story with the child’s page-turning, movement, vocalizations, signs and/or rhythm activities
Expect increased participation after several readings; then expect even more from the child as re-readings continue

Having some control over what to read increases motivation and engagement. Are you providing opportunities for the child to select what to read?
Are you using songs, rhymes, poems and/or rap as well as stories found in books?
Are you encouraging movement as a way to increase participation?
As the child becomes familiar with the story, are you helping make connections to words and phrases from the story?
Are you collecting data on the child’s favorite ways to “read” and “re-read”?
Are you increasing the child’s familiarity with a book or story by talking about it (e.g. naming characters, summarizing, predicting)?