Family Reading Activities
The following ideas are taken directly from the book
Expressway to Reading 101 Creative Activities for Intermediate Readers
by: Beatrice G. Davis, M.S., P.D.
1. Become Your Child's Literacy Learning Partner
Although your child may now be reading independently, s/he can still gain a great deal when you read to or with her/him. Choosing books based on your child's age and interest rather than reading ability exposes her/him to a wider variety of information.
2. Tell It Again
Ask your child to retell a story in her/his own words. This is a valuable activity for developing comprehension skills. It requires paying attention to the details and the sequence of events in a story.
3. Tape Record a Book
If you find that you're unable to read with your child on a regular basis, try making a tape of a book or story. If your child is a beginning reader, you could use signals, such as a whistle or bell, to indicate when a page should be turned.
4. Read Stories in Unison
Some stories are fun to read in unison. Choose a story or poem with which your child is familiar, and read it aloud together.
5. Special Occasion Reading
Start a family tradition of reading a favorite book for each holiday, birthday, or other special event that you celebrate together.
6. Encourage Regular Library Use
Using the library can have a positive effect on children's school work. It puts them in touch with books, media, and people who can help them. As soon as your child is eligible, be sure that he/she gets a library card. Of course, you should have one, too. Plan regular visits together.
