The Editor, Sir:

Early intervention is the key to reading development. Too many of our children are not reading and far too many of our parents are not taking responsibility.

Many of our children would be better readers today if their parents had bought them more storybooks and fewer toys and not only buy them the books, but sit with them and ensure they knew what was in the books.

Building schema

Allow them to read to you and you read back to them. Gossip with your neighbour less and spend that time talking to your child about the world around him. This will build his schema and enhance his comprehension skills as he will be able to bring meaning to the printed word.

Nursery rhymes, jingles, and gems are extremely important early-language acquisition tools. When last did you teach your son a gem or a jingle? Let them sing DJ songs less and teach those gems, rhymes, jingles and Bible verses.

Interest is infectious. Show them you care about learning yourself. Read a book, read a magazine, read the Bible - let them see you reading. So take responsibility, parents and make your home what it should be - an early learning environment.

I am, etc.,

ANDREW CAMPBELL

tallboybruce@yahoo.com

Reading specialist

Portmore

Via Go-Jamaica