A variety and abundance of reading materials in the home will give children the idea that reading is a worthwhile and useful activity. Children who have been exposed to books and print from birth have been known to develop a large vocabulary of sight words as well as a number of reading skills. From the time they are babies it is important for children to have books that belong to them. When children own books they value them as prized possessions. The recommended number of books is at least 25.
Garage sales provide an inexpensive way to acquire books.
Give them as gifts and ask relatives and friends to give books as gifts to your child also. You can supplement the books your child owns by weekly trips to the library. Most libraries will let you borrow a large number of picture books at one time. Buy paperback versions of books. They cost less and therefore you will be less worried about their condition.