Today's spotlight is on the fourth of the 'Big Six' keys to reading...Vocabulary.

When children have a large ‘spoken’ vocabulary, meaning they use and understand lots of different words, they are well placed to recognise and understand those words when they see them during reading.

Families can support their child at home with their Vocabulary knowledge by:

• Encouraging them to talk and listen for a range of different purposes
• Reading aloud to your child often
• Become ‘word aware’ as you read aloud. One of the best places for children to hear new words used meaningfully is in great children’s literature. Comment on words you know are new to your child.  
• Get your children to become ‘word detectives’ when out and about. Notice new and interesting words on street signs, at the zoo or museum, on menus or on pamphlets.
• Use a wide vocabulary when speaking to your child. Encourage children to ask the meanings of unfamiliar words and to use new words in their own spoken communication.