A free resource for parents and caregivers
Seven small steps to English storytime
Use a story your child enjoys, in a book or a read-along app. Keep the session short, read together and stop while it is still fun. Repeat a favourite story rather than rushing to a harder one.
□ Day 1 — Look and listen
Look at the pictures together. Listen to a short page or read it aloud. Ask: “What can you see?”
□ Day 2 — Follow the words
Read the same page. Point to the words as you say them. With a narrated story, follow the highlighted words together.
□ Day 3 — Pick a word
Choose one useful word from the story. Find it in the picture, say it together and use it in a short sentence.
□ Day 4 — Try a little reading
Let your child try a familiar word or phrase. Help when they ask; you can read the rest. Praise the effort.
□ Day 5 — Talk about the story
Ask an easy question: “Who is in the story?” or “What happened?” Accept a short answer and talk about it together.
□ Day 6 — Read it again
Return to a favourite page. Your child can join in with repeated words, listen again or tell you about a picture.
□ Day 7 — Choose what comes next
Let your child choose a repeat or a new story. Notice what they enjoyed and plan another relaxed storytime.
This is a home reading activity, not a phonics curriculum or a promise of a particular learning outcome. Follow your child's teacher's advice when choosing reading instruction.
Reading with siblings? See the homeschool resources and printable reading log.
Need a story to start?
Try two free Level 1 read-along stories in your browser. No account or download needed.
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