Engaging children and teens in reading over the summer | Series 1, Episode 22

Episode 22 transcript

Non-Traditional Reading Forms to Engage Children Over the Summer

Many children hate the idea of reading every day when on holiday. Or do they?

To be precise, some children are often resistant to reading a prescribed book each day on holiday. But what if holiday reading doesn’t have to involve a book? What is reading doesn’t even seem like reading?

As teachers, we understand the importance of encouraging reading among children, particularly during the long summer holidays. However, traditional reading materials, such as books and textbooks, may not always capture the interest of every child.

Diversifying the types of reading materials can not only maintain but also enhance their reading skills. Here, we explore various non-traditional forms of reading that can be both educational and engaging for children during the summer break.

Product Catalogues and Brochures

Product catalogues and brochures are often overlooked as valuable reading resources. These materials are filled with descriptive text, prices, and specifications that require children to read and comprehend information critically. For instance, a child interested in toys could browse through a toy catalogue, read the descriptions, compare prices, and even engage in simple arithmetic. This practice not only improves their reading skills but also helps them understand the practical applications of reading in everyday life.

Search Engine Competitions

The internet is a treasure trove of information, and search engine competitions can make learning fun. Create scavenger hunts where children use search engines to find answers to questions or locate specific pieces of information. For example, you might ask them to find facts about different countries, famous historical figures, or scientific phenomena. This activity helps children develop their research skills, critical thinking, and the ability to discern reliable sources from unreliable ones.

Escape Rooms with Textual Clues

Escape rooms have become a popular form of entertainment and can be a fantastic educational tool. These activities require participants to solve puzzles and riddles to “escape” from a room, often involving a series of textual clues. By creating or participating in escape rooms designed for children, you can make reading an adventurous and collaborative experience. These activities improve comprehension, inference, and problem-solving skills, all while fostering teamwork.

Puzzles and Riddles

Puzzles and riddles are excellent for developing critical thinking and comprehension skills. They require children to read carefully, think logically, and sometimes even conduct a bit of research. Consider introducing a “Riddle of the Day” or puzzle challenges that children can solve on their own or with friends. These activities can easily be found online or in puzzle books, providing endless opportunities for engagement.

Reading Signs on Transportation

Traveling, whether by car, bus, or train, presents numerous opportunities for reading. Encourage children to read road signs, maps, timetables, and informational posters found in stations or airports. This form of reading not only keeps them occupied during travel but also enhances their ability to navigate and understand practical information. It also introduces them to new vocabulary related to geography, transportation, and logistics.

Instructions and Manuals

Everyday objects often come with instructions or manuals, and these can be a valuable reading resource. Whether assembling a new toy, setting up a game, or even following a recipe, reading instructions requires careful attention to detail and comprehension. Involving children in these activities can improve their ability to follow sequential steps and understand procedural text.

Interactive Apps and E-Books

In the digital age, interactive apps and e-books offer dynamic ways for children to engage with text. Many educational apps include interactive stories, games, and activities that promote reading. These tools often include features such as read-aloud functions, highlighted text, and interactive elements that make reading more engaging and accessible for children, particularly those who may struggle with traditional reading.

Comic Books and Graphic Novels

While not entirely non-traditional, comic books and graphic novels provide a different reading experience that combines visual and textual elements. The integration of illustrations with text can help children better understand the story and context, making reading more enjoyable. These formats are particularly beneficial for reluctant readers or those who find dense text overwhelming.

Recipe Reading and Cooking

Cooking is a practical and enjoyable way to incorporate reading into daily activities. Following a recipe requires reading and understanding instructions, measuring ingredients, and sometimes even learning new vocabulary. Involving children in cooking can make reading a hands-on experience, and the end result is a tasty reward for their efforts.

Role-Playing Games (RPGs)

Role-playing games often require players to read and understand complex rules, storylines, and character descriptions. Whether playing traditional tabletop RPGs or digital versions, these games can significantly enhance reading comprehension and vocabulary. They also encourage creativity, strategic thinking, and collaboration.

Encouraging a Diverse Reading Approach

Incorporating these non-traditional forms of reading can make the activity more appealing and relatable for children. The key is to integrate reading into fun and engaging activities that align with their interests. By doing so, we can help children develop a love for reading that extends beyond the classroom and traditional texts.

Practical Tips for Implementation

• Create a Summer Reading Challenge: Develop a bingo card or checklist featuring various non-traditional reading activities. Reward children for completing different tasks.
• Set Up a Reading Corner: Designate a comfortable and inviting space where children can engage with different reading materials, from catalogues to comic books.
• Involve Parents and Guardians: Encourage them to incorporate reading into daily routines, such as reading recipes while cooking or following travel guides during trips.
• Leverage Technology: Use educational apps and e-books to provide interactive reading experiences.
• Encourage Exploration: Allow children to choose what they want to read, fostering autonomy and a sense of ownership over their reading journey.

By embracing these diverse forms of reading, we can support children’s literacy development in innovative ways, ensuring that they continue to grow as readers over the summer holidays and beyond.