Did you know that your child can grow in their reading and comprehension skills by having fun? One of the best ways to have kids learn from books is to interact with them through thought and enjoyment. Recreational reading can relieve stress, is good for brain and cognitive development, and can help develop empathy (Mason Grad Insider, 2022). "A good ... story can draw kids into a world they might otherwise never explore. Through the captivating narratives, they forge emotional connections with the characters, sharing in their successes and challenges. These stories take our kids to far-off lands they’ve only dreamed of and make them feel brave and curious" (Keller,2025, p. 1). When students enjoy and think about what they read, they engage in a whole new way.
Students also grow in many skills when they write. Writing enhances learning across all grade levels by strengthening memory and increasing metacognition (Terada, 2021). Terada shares in the article (linked below), some fun ways to get your child writing such as "I wonder" journals and "make your own" magazines. Additionally, linked below are some great reading and writing extension activities. Feel free to print them out and have your child pick one (or many!) to complete as desired. There are activities that appeal to all types of learners and all learning styles- every learner should find something in here that appeals to them. Students can work on one for an afternoon... or a few weeks. These are great for all students as they can be completed at the level your child is at, while still stretching their reading/writing skills and their thinking!
I have also linked some great apps and websites that the students can use for practice and enjoyment, and where they can find reading materials. Some of these require a subscription while others are free. Since many grown ups ask me for resources, I thought I would link these in as well. Enjoy!
Article: The Scientific Power of Adventure Books (Keller, 2025)
Article: Why Students Should Write in All Subjects (Terada, 2021)