Independent Reading
How long should my child independently read?
Incoming first graders- 5-10 minutes a day
Incoming second graders- 15-20 minutes a day
Incoming third graders-20-30 minutes a day
Fourth and Fifth Graders- 30 or more minutes a day
The minutes listed above are suggestions but research shows a strong correlation to reading achievement and time spent reading.
Simply see what your child can handle. Every child is different. Take note, encourage them to independently read and slowly increase their reading time.
Reward by reading together or talking about what they read! Making time for independent reading each day turns reading into a healthy habit.
Everyday children should have time to read easy books on their own. This is the time when children pull out their old favorite books! That may be books they have memorized or books they have been reading over and over again. Sometimes these books may seem too easy. That’s okay! Your child is reading and building up momentum to read harder books on their own!
Explore both fiction and nonfiction books. You may notice that easy nonfiction books are harder to find. Nonfiction books that are filled with photos, and pop ups and flaps are perfect for young readers to explore. Magazine subscriptions are great for nonfiction reading.
Create a cozy reading spot in your house fit with a basket of books that is often filled and restocked with new old favorites!
Visit the library weekly.
