A teacher guide on how to encourage pupils to read over the summer
We are soon approaching the end of the exam period and the beginning of the summer holidays, so here we discuss how to encourage pupils to read more over the summer .
Teachers, and supply teaching staff will know only too well that catch up learning, post Covid impact is still a factor. We all know that children who read on a regular basis have better language skills and attention spans. So why not encourage your pupils to continue to read over the summer break?
Teacher tips to encourage reading habits in children over the summer holidays
- Support your pupils to engage in a book club, they could even start their own.
- Encourage them to visit the library; it’s free.
- Run a summer reading competition for most books read.
- Normalise how most people take a book to read when they go on holiday.
- Let them research some books newly published; perhaps they have a favourite author.
- Let them research in groups, list of age-appropriate magazines and comics.
- Generate interest in magazines by allowing them to access a selection that they may not be aware of eg the Nation Geographic and specialist magazines.
- Get them to investigate if any of their favourite famous people have written an autobiography; not everyone likes fiction.
- Arrange a book swop session before the end of term.
Here is a list of popular books per Key stage:
Keystage 1: For 5-7years
Aliens Love Underpants by Ben Cort and Claire Freedman
The Day The Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt
Oh, The Places You’ll Go! By Dr. Seuss
Keystage 2: For 7 – 11years
Saving Neverland by Abi Elphinstone: a new take on Peter Pan brining in a modern feel.Jane Austen Children’s Stories – Emma (Easy Classics): brilliant way to get young readers into classical novels without the difficulty.Mirabelle and the Magical Mayhem by Harriet Muncaster: a popular author, kids love it.
Keystage 3: For 11– 14 years
The Girl of Ink and Stars by Kiran Millwood Hargrave: a great story about friendship and adventure.Kay’s Marvellous Medicine by Adam Kay: very funny and illuminates kids on all things medical.The Sun and the Star by Rick Riordan: the latest Percy Jackson adventure.
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