NBC Reading Strategies

ways for families to connect through reading

This program is about connection. It’s about kids connecting with books, it’s about families connecting over reading, and it’s about communities connecting over shared favorite books from childhood through adulthood.

before reading

Make it fun! Get excited!

• Find a cozy spot, build a reading fort, cuddle up under a special reading blanket, etc. 

• Ask your reader: “What do you think this book is going to be about? Why?”

• Do 7 Balloon Belly Breaths OR 7 Deep Belly Breathing exercises. (Check out BeWell Breathing Strategies here.)

DURING reading

Make Connections. There are lots of ways to enjoy reading together. Most important is to have fun!

Consider some of these:

• Try out fun voices.

• Make connections. (“This reminds me of…, I felt like that when I….”)

• Predict what will happen next.

• Ask questions. (“What would you do if you were in that situation? What advice would you give that character?”)

• Read your own book alongside your independent reader.

AFTER reading

Make Meaning with Extra Activities. Try some of these ideas to make reading together go even further.

Consider some of these:

• Do a Feelings Check-in. (“How do you feel after reading this book?”)

• Identify and re-read favorite parts of the book.

• Choose a character and look at how that character changes. 

• Find some cool or unfamiliar words.

• Do a project together inspired by the book. (Come up with a sequel, draw an original book cover, write a letter to the author.)

• Do 3 Balloon Belly Breaths OR 3 Deep Belly Breathing exercises. (Check out BeWell Breathing Strategies here.)