Image credit Stephanie Six.
What is Active Reading?
Active Reading is when we read with kids instead of to them. It’s about using the ABCs (Ask questions, Build vocabulary, and Connect to the child’s world) to help kids (age 2 to 5) think about the stories and words in books, and how their lives and interests connect with stories. Through Active Reading, kids learn important language, vocabulary, and story knowledge that helps them become strong readers when they get to school.
Interested in bringing Active Reading to your organization or community? Samantha is available for talks, workshops, consultations, and dreaming up more ways to turn kids into lifelong bookworms! Let’s connect!
I wear my sunglasses to read.
WHAT BOOKS ARE GOOD FOR ACTIVE READING?
Any book is good for Active Reading, really, but the best ones have good stories and rich illustrations. Below are books you can check out from your local library or book store that are great for Active Reading with children ages 2-5.
Classic Titles
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
Corduroy by Don Freeman
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Contemporary (Destined to be Classics) Titles
A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip Stead
Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev
The Scarecrow by Beth Ferry
The Rough Patch by Brian Lies
Saturday by Oge Mora
Books by Dan Santat: Beekle: The Unimaginary Friend, After The Fall
Books by Loren Long: Otis, Otis and the Scarecrow, Otis and the Kittens
Books by Anna Dewdney: Little Excavator, Nelly Gnu and Daddy Too
Books by Ame Dyckman: Wolfie the Bunny, Read the Book Lemmings, Dandy
Books by Judy Nevin: What Mommies Like, What Daddies Like
Books by Kate Messner: Over and Under the Pond, Up in the Garden, Down in the Dirt, Over and Under the Snow
Books by Matt de la Pena: Last Stop on Market Street, Carmela Full of Wishes
Get the latest Active Reading book!
Raising an Active Reader is ready for your bookshelf! It’s all about Active Reading for kids in grades K-3.
Get your copy from Rowman & Littlefield or Amazon.