Every Tuesday, local experts field your questions about your kids, your health, child development and related issues.

Today, Lynne Vernon-Feagans, a fellow at the FPG Child Development Institute and an early literacy expert, answers this question from a mom. 

The Question: My 3-year-old is very interested in reading. She can recognize some words (like her name, some of her friend's names and "dog"), likes me to point to words when I'm reading a book to her and constantly asks me "what's this says." She also "reads" books to herself and points to the words as if she's reading them. I've started to wonder if I should more actively begin teaching her to read? She seems interested? At the same time, I don't want to push her.

The Response:  It sounds like you are doing just what you need to do. Encouraging your child's interests are an important part of parenting. Your three-year-old does not need formal reading training yet, but answering questions about reading and encouraging her to be interested in books is perfectly appropriate. Your daughter may or may not begin to read skillfully before she enters formal schooling. What is most important is to keep her interested and engaged in literacy activities she enjoys. You seem to be doing a good job of that already so keep up the good work.

Check out our other daily themes at TriangleMom2Mom:

MONDAY: Meet!
TUESDAY: Ask!
WEDNESDAY: Eat!
THURSDAY: Play!
FRIDAY: Out!

WEEKEND: Relax!