Children love to be read to and they love the sound of your voice. You can create your own recordings of your children's favorite books to enjoy both when you are together and apart. If you are away from one another, the sound of your voice will reassure your children.

These recordings also make a wonderful keepsake and gift for grandparents or loved ones who live far away to give. If you are feeling really adventurous, you can create a full scale production complete with sound effects that you can listen to when your read-aloud voice needs a rest.

• Select your child's favorite book.
• Record yourself reading the book to your child. Be sure to go slowly.
• Use a sound effect (a bell, or squeaky toy) to signify when it is time to turn the page
• Your child can participate in the recording adding fun voices and sound effect.
• Show your child how to play the tape recording and "read along" with the book.