Jessica Rolph welcomes Sami Carrick to this episode to talk about that magical moment of connection with our baby: story time. And all those who have read a book to an infant know that it doesn’t always go as planned! We know how important it is to read to our babies, but what should we do if they are crawling out of our laps, crazily flipping pages, or just plain not interested in what’s on the page?   Sami shares how teaching literacy can take lots of forms. She is a certified reading specialist and the mom behind Literacy for Littles.   Key Takeaways: [1:30] Reading to a newborn: Sami explains how this might look. [2:34] Position your newborn baby so they can see your facial expressions while you are reading. [3:04] Consider incorporating a book at nap time and bedtime to help create predictability for your baby. [3:31] When to introduce sensory books to babies. [4:26] Tips to engage your baby in reading when they don’t seem to be able to stop moving or are uninterested. [6:28] Sami shares practical tips to help a child learn how to turn the pages. [8:01] The benefits of adding rubber bands to the pages. [8:48] How to incorporate reading in the daily routine outside of bedtime. [10:24] The importance of using a dramatic, animated voice while reading to your baby. [11:50] Tips for parents to teach literacy early on. [13:54] Sami explains why learning letter sounds is more important than being able to recite the ABCs. [16:22] The benefits of incorporating sign language into a child’s day.   Mentioned in this episode: Literacy for Littles Brought to you by Lovevery.com