Asma Balfaqih
Joyful learning
When a child does not know a word
When we read aloud, children stumble over words they have never heard. The first reaction of many adults is to explain right away. It is well meant, and it interrupts the story.
I usually leave the word standing and read on. Very often the meaning becomes clear by itself, because the next line completes the picture. Only when the child stops and asks do I explain.
And then briefly, with an example from its own day. A word learned inside a story stays longer than one that was tested.