Talk and Read Together Cards

Point out something the child is looking at: “That dog is running.” Pause. A look, gesture, sound or word can be a response. Follow what they notice next instead of quizzing them on all the pictures.

If the child says “truck,” you might add “a big truck” or describe what it is doing. Leave room for them to continue. The aim is a shared conversation, not a correction after every word.

Read a favorite page again. Invite participation in a phrase or action the child recognizes, without making it a requirement. Familiarity can leave more room for noticing a new detail.

With a preschooler, wonder what a character might do next. “Where do you think they will go?” You can offer your own idea and listen to a different one. A picture choice or drawing can take the place of a spoken answer.

Talk in the language or languages that help you connect. You can discuss a picture even if the book's printed language differs. Find professional communication information if you have a concern rather than assuming multilingual experience is the cause.

Read about speech and more than one language

• Baby: show one picture, name it and respond to the baby's attention.
• Toddler: follow a pointed-to item and add a short description.
• Preschooler: choose a familiar character and invent another part of the story together.

A book, picture or daily activity:

A short opening:

Ways the child can respond:

Borrow a book, use an existing drawing or talk about something outside. Buying a new resource is not necessary to begin.

Read the full talking and reading guide · Explore everyday connection

Edition: October 2026. National Parenting Foundation. Reuse and permissions.