Free homeschool reading resources for English storytime
Build a shared storytime around one short story, then give each child a task that fits what they can do today. These free resources work with your own books or Class Readers.
Reading with different ages
One story, different tasks: listening, supported reading and retelling. Includes a co-op rotation plan.
Read the mixed-age guide →Printable reading log
Record the story, kind of practice, help needed and one next step. Print a fresh page for each child.
Open and print the log →Plan your reading week
Keep explicit reading instruction, story practice and rich read-aloud time distinct.
See an example week →Choose a reading app
A practical checklist for scope, free access, devices, accounts and costs.
Use the app checklist →A simple starting point
- Choose a familiar story. An adult reads or plays one short page.
- Invite a child to try a word, phrase or sentence they can read with support.
- Ask what happened and let them respond with speech, a drawing or writing.
- Note what helped in the reading log; choose a repeat or a new page next time.
For a gentler introduction, use the seven-day English storytime routine.
Questions parents ask
Does this replace a homeschool reading curriculum?
No. These story activities supplement reading instruction. They do not provide a sequenced phonics curriculum or a formal assessment.
Can we try it without buying a subscription?
Yes. Sam’s Silly Hat and Coco Wakes Up are free browser read-alongs with no account needed. The app also includes these two free Level 1 stories; its full library requires Premium.
Try the routine with a real story
Sam’s Silly Hat and Coco Wakes Up are two free Level 1 browser stories. No account or download is needed. In the iPhone and iPad app, these two stories are free; Premium unlocks over 150 books across 12 levels. The app requires an account.
Choose a free read-along →