3/31/2020
5 Simple Ways to Promote Reading at Home
Families with children at home due to COVID-19 school closures: We get it. We’re parents, too. And we know you’re looking for ways to keep the kids busy AND learning while you juggle other responsibilities.
Whether your child’s school has a formal plan for remote learning or not, we know you’re doing your best to manage the sudden change.
Things may feel overwhelming right now, but getting kids to read doesn’t have to be a chore.
Here are five simple, no-prep ideas from Lexia’s curriculum experts for making reading a fun part of your child’s day. These ideas are appropriate for foundational through intermediate readers (pre-K through fifth grade) during school closures, summer vacations, weekends, or every day!
No special materials are required, just your child's favorite books and some creativity.
1. Create a schedule
Include the whole family in creating a daily or weekly schedule. It doesn’t need to be a detailed, color-coded, illustrated masterpiece—just try to map out a predictable routine that includes time for reading.
2. Set up a reading nook.
Look for a relatively quiet (if possible!) space to read. Pillows and blankets can make this reading nook extra comfortable.
3. Fill a backpack.
Although backpacks tend to be associated with school, the supplies they hold can be useful for kids at home, too! Minimize time spent rummaging through cupboards and drawers by encouraging kids to pre-emptively "pack" a water bottle, snacks, books, paper, and writing or drawing implements.
4. Get to know the characters.
Story characters can be an important part of kids' lives, and integrating them into everyday activities is a fun way to spice up the usual routine. Ask children: What if Curious George had lunch with us? Do you think Hagrid could do it? What would Matilda say about that?
5. Go on an indoor camping trip.
Even in the middle of the day, using a flashlight can make reading a special event. Drape a sheet over a chair to make a tent, stock it with books, and go camping!
Teachers, feel free to share these suggestions with your students and families.
We’ll be bringing you more at-home activity ideas over the next several weeks. Until then, stay safe, stay sane, and maybe even find time to read a book yourself!
Support for Educators: Using Lexia® Programs At Home
Lexia understands that, whether you are in the classroom or supporting students remotely, you are at the heart of student success. We want to make sure that you have the resources you need to continue to support students and their families during extended time away from school. Here are some key resources to help you support the successful implementation of Lexia products.