10 Simple Reading Strategies Every Parent Can Use at Home to Boost Reading Skills During Breaks

Breaks from school are a wonderful time for family, relaxation, and, of course, a little extra reading practice! Maintaining your child’s reading development during breaks doesn’t have to be a chore. With these simple strategies, you can incorporate reading in ways that are fun, relaxed, and effective, helping your child return to school ready and eager to keep learning. Here are ten easy-to-implement strategies that can keep your child’s literacy skills sharp!

1. Create a Daily Reading Routine

Setting aside just 15-20 minutes each day for reading can make a huge difference in maintaining reading skills. This doesn’t have to be a sit-down session; you can make it cozy with blankets, pillows, or even a read-aloud session before bed.

Tip: Let your child choose the book, whether it’s a comic, a picture book, or a chapter book, to ensure they’re excited about their reading time.

2. Model Reading for Enjoyment

Show your child that reading is enjoyable by setting an example. Let them see you reading a book, magazine, or even cooking recipes. When children see reading as something people do for fun, they’re more likely to enjoy it, too.

Tip: Pick a book you can read together, or have a “family reading hour” where everyone grabs something to read.

3. Have Fun with Audiobooks

Audiobooks are a fantastic way for children to experience stories. Listening to audiobooks on car rides, while doing chores, or during quiet time can help children build vocabulary, comprehension, and even listening skills.

Tip: Many libraries offer free access to audiobooks, so check to see what’s available!

4. Visit the Library or Bookstore

Make a trip to the library or bookstore a special event. Letting your child pick out books they’re interested in will keep them excited to read throughout the break. Many libraries even offer storytimes or reading challenges, adding a layer of motivation.

Tip: Look for seasonal or themed books to make the experience more engaging.

5. Play Word and Reading Games

There are many games that help reinforce literacy skills. Try games like Scrabble Junior, Boggle, or Bananagrams for a fun family night that also sneaks in some reading practice.

Tip: No board games? Make up your own! Write words on sticky notes and play a scavenger hunt game to find and read each word.

6. Encourage Storytelling and Creative Writing

Reading and writing go hand-in-hand. Have your child create their own story, comic strip, or poem. This not only practices writing skills but also comprehension as they think through story structure.

Tip: Use family photos or vacation memories as inspiration for their story, turning it into a keepsake!

7. Ask Questions While Reading Together

Engage with the story by asking questions about what you’re reading together. This builds comprehension and critical thinking. Questions like “What do you think will happen next?” or “How do you think the character feels?” help your child dive deeper into the story.

Tip: Let your child ask questions too! When they’re curious about a character or plot, it shows they’re engaged.

8. Turn Closed Captioning On

If your family is watching a show or movie, turn on the closed captions. Reading along with the dialogue can help reinforce sight words, sentence structure, and even new vocabulary.

Tip: Choose an animated show or a favorite movie where your child is already familiar with the storyline. This makes it easier for them to follow along.

9. Make Use of Educational Apps and Websites

Breaks from school are a great time to try out educational apps and websites focused on literacy. Apps like Epic!, ABCmouse, or Starfall offer fun, interactive reading activities suited to various age levels.

Tip: Set a screen time limit for educational apps, keeping sessions short to prevent screen fatigue.

10. Write and Send Letters to Family Members

Letter writing is a lost art that doubles as a valuable reading and writing practice. Have your child write letters or holiday cards to family members or friends. It’s an authentic way to practice writing and reading, plus they get the joy of sharing their thoughts with others!

Tip: You could also turn this into a journal-writing activity, where they describe their day or something fun they did over the break.

By incorporating these strategies into your child’s routine over breaks, you’ll keep their literacy skills sharp without it feeling like “schoolwork.” Remember, consistency and enjoyment are key. When children view reading as a fun and regular part of their lives, they’re more likely to grow into avid readers. Happy reading!