Learning to read isn’t a race, and keeping books enjoyable is still the best way to keep children engaged (and for them to get to grips with the mechanics of literacy, too, in their own time)
- Follow children’s interests: some children prefer non-fiction, or graphic novels. Some like to read (or like you to read) the same book over again – that’s all fine, fun is the most important thing
- Give books as gifts: booksellers can help with recommendations
- Do a local book swap, giving children the opportunity to recommend books to each other
If you’re passionate about encouraging all children to read, then consider becoming a volunteer reader with a charity like Bookmark
Monthly Inspiration from BookTrust on what to read for this age group:
The Big Green by Author-illustrator Ken Wilson-Max
Ken Wilson-Max’s lovely story is based on the planting of the Great Green Wall of Africa, a project involving people from 11 countries that aims to slow down the spread of the desert by planting trees and plants. This inspiring book shows the real-life impacts of an important and hopeful environmental project on children’s lives, and also comes with a guide to planting trees at the back of the book.