Use this activity to discover and celebrate your class’s reading lives. Find out what, how, and when children read, and show them that every kind of reading counts.
Why it works
Children feel more encouraged to read when their home reading is valued at school. When teachers understand what pupils enjoy, it’s easier to connect them with books that match their interests and confidence. This activity helps pupils feel heard and reminds them that all reading matters, from comics to cookbooks. It’s also a great way to start conversations about what reading means to each child.
Get started
Talk about your own reading habits to show that all kinds count. Share examples such as:
- Magazines and newspapers
- Online reading
- Non-fiction and facts
- Favourite stories or audiobooks
Conversation starters
Use these prompts to explore your class’s reading habits and attitudes:
- Do you find reading easy or tricky?
- How do you feel when asked to read?
- What kinds of books or reading do you like?
- Where and when do you enjoy reading?
- Have you found something you love yet, or are you still looking?
- Do you have a recommendation for me or your friends?
Use the worksheet
Model your own answers first, then invite pupils to share theirs. The printable worksheet below helps you capture their ideas and patterns. Help children reflect and record:
- A recommendation they want to share
- How they feel about reading
- What they want their teacher to know