A new year brings fresh beginnings and a chance to set exciting goals. For parents and teachers of young children, it’s a great time to focus on early literacy! Helping kids develop strong reading skills not only builds their confidence but also lays a solid foundation for lifelong learning. Here are our top 10 tips to make early literacy resolutions fun and easy to stick with this year.
1. Set Simple, Achievable Reading Goals
Goals work best when they’re clear and manageable. Instead of something broad like “read more,” try setting specific targets like “read one decodable book each week” or “practice phonics for 10 minutes a day.” Breaking things down into smaller steps makes it easier to celebrate progress along the way.
2. Create a Cozy Reading Spot
Winter is the perfect time to create a snuggly reading nook! Add some blankets, pillows, and good lighting to make the space inviting. Keep a stack of decodable books nearby that match your child’s reading level—they’ll love having their own special place to dive into a story.
(Not sure what level they’re reading at? Try our placement tests to get an idea.)
3. Make Reading Part of Your Day
The key to building any habit is consistency, and reading is no different. Find natural moments in your day to share a story, like reading a book together before bedtime or practicing phonics over breakfast. Making reading a regular part of daily life helps it feel natural and fun.
4. Build Confidence with Decodable Books
Decodable books are specially designed to support early readers by aligning with what they’re learning in phonics. They make it easier for kids to apply their new skills and feel successful. A great place to start is Phunics, an online library of decodable books tailored to early readers. Phunics offers engaging stories and an evidence-based approach that help build confidence and foster a love for reading.
5. Celebrate Every Milestone
Learning to read is a big deal, so don’t forget to cheer for your child’s successes. Whether they decode a tricky word or finish a book, let them know you’re proud. Small rewards like stickers or tokens in a “reading jar” can add an extra layer of excitement.
6. Have Fun with Seasonal Stories
Winter-themed books are a great way to make reading feel festive and relevant. Look for stories about snow, animals in winter, or New Year celebrations. You can even pair these books with crafts or simple activities to bring the stories to life.
7. Stay in Touch with Teachers
If your child is in school, their teacher can be a wonderful resource. They can share insights about your child’s progress and recommend activities or books to support their learning. Working together ensures everyone’s on the same page.
8. Make Reading a Social Activity
Reading doesn’t have to be a solo activity. Try hosting a family reading night or a virtual book club with friends. Sharing stories and talking about them helps kids develop comprehension skills and makes reading even more enjoyable.
9. Keep Track of Progress
Using a reading chart or journal can be a great motivator for young readers. Record the books they’ve read, new words they’ve learned, or favorite stories. Watching their progress grow can be incredibly rewarding.
10. Always Keep It Fun
Most importantly, make sure reading stays enjoyable. If your child is frustrated, it’s okay to take a break and try again later. You can also introduce games, songs, or apps that make phonics and reading skills more interactive and engaging. Phunics stories are written to be both fun and educational, ensuring young readers stay engaged while building their skills.
This year, let’s make early literacy a joyful priority. With decodable books and a bit of creativity, 2025 can be the year your young reader flourishes. Happy reading!